Yet Another Cycling Forum

General Category => Audax => Topic started by: Sio2111 on 18 March, 2015, 07:25:09 am

Title: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Sio2111 on 18 March, 2015, 07:25:09 am
Looks like a new contender has thrown their hat in to the ring according to the UMCA

http://www.ultracycling.com/wp_news/?p=553 (http://www.ultracycling.com/wp_news/?p=553)

Miles Smith is an Aussie. Looks like this is going to be an truly international competition not unlike the original challenge.

Exciting times!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 18 March, 2015, 07:31:07 am
Excellent. Will be interesting to see how seasonal differences in Aus will affect his schedule. And good to see some nominative determinism at work.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 07:38:15 am
Chipper.

Best goodwill to him.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mcshroom on 18 March, 2015, 07:40:27 am
Looks like another audaxer too :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 18 March, 2015, 07:46:17 am
Whatever distance Steve accumulates by the end of the year, one of his legacies will be that he has kicked off a new era in international long distance cycling. He's made an impact.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hatler on 18 March, 2015, 07:56:05 am
Oh no !  Poor jo.

:-)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 18 March, 2015, 08:37:34 am
Nominative determinism or an early April Fool?

Will there be a woman's record attempt by Kilometre Jane?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: geraldc on 18 March, 2015, 08:51:02 am
My googling has uncovered nothing, other than a tweet about him suffering a mechanical on the SM1200, and his name on the rider list

https://audax.org.au/public/index.php/audaxregions/qld/35-all-rides/major-rides/299-sm1200riders
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: loadsabikes on 18 March, 2015, 08:53:07 am
Steve has definitely tweeked the nose of the spindly killer fish!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Nuncio on 18 March, 2015, 09:13:57 am
My googling has uncovered nothing, other than a tweet about him suffering a mechanical on the SM1200, and his name on the rider list

https://audax.org.au/public/index.php/audaxregions/qld/35-all-rides/major-rides/299-sm1200riders

Well, with a couple of clicks I've uncovered the answer to the most important question: what's his nom de velo?

https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1)

Miles 'Big-Ring' Smith.

I'm sure we could suggest something better than that.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 18 March, 2015, 09:16:16 am
Oh no !  Poor jo.

:-)

He should rewrite himself as a shellscript.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Vince on 18 March, 2015, 09:16:54 am
https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1)
Is that orange juice he's drinking????
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 09:38:40 am
https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1)
Is that orange juice he's drinking????

looks like Coopers to me, cobber.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: MikeH on 18 March, 2015, 09:49:43 am
Good luck to the young gentleman  :thumbsup:

And as has already been said, it seems that Steve's legacy may well be that he has revived interest and enthusiasm in the ultimate endurance cycling challenge.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 09:59:39 am
England vs Australia.

At the end, they’ll burn the bikes and put them in a small urn.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: geraldc on 18 March, 2015, 10:39:41 am
The size of his ring had my eyes watering, I can't comprehend the pain that pushing a ring that big must entail. He must have thighs the size of very very big thighs.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bxkhik9CcAAKA4H.jpg)


Drink confirmed as Coopers Pale https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=727823687252798&id=282941611741010
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hatler on 18 March, 2015, 10:44:36 am
Strewth.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: MikeH on 18 March, 2015, 11:05:51 am
Pictures a bit too low res, but that looks like about 90T  :o
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 18 March, 2015, 11:09:53 am
Maybe he knows of the efficiency benefits of combining a large chainring with a large sprocket, and the decrease in chain tension for a given moment being generated, which will increase component life...
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 March, 2015, 11:22:19 am
I wonder how much that ring weighs? To be stiff enough, it must be substantially thicker than normal rings, or made from steel.

Seems a bit mad to me. It's not unusual to get headwinds in Australia in a fenlike manner, for even greater distances.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 18 March, 2015, 11:37:55 am
The size of his ring had my eyes watering, I can't comprehend the pain that pushing a ring that big must entail. He must have thighs the size of very very big thighs.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bxkhik9CcAAKA4H.jpg)


Drink confirmed as Coopers Pale https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=727823687252798&id=282941611741010
Thighs of a brontosaurus. Does he also have the ferocity of an allosaurus?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 18 March, 2015, 11:40:14 am
His start date, 11 April, is by coincidence, HAM'R Day.   The one where Strave followers are asked to ride as far as they can that day.

Or maybe it's not a coincidence.

Anyway, hope he has fun and pushes Steve and Kurt to even further horizons.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 March, 2015, 12:15:16 pm
Maybe he knows of the efficiency benefits of combining a large chainring with a large sprocket, and the decrease in chain tension for a given moment being generated, which will increase component life...

I can see the attraction of doing this with fixed or s/s but with disraeli gears it seems a tad strange.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 12:38:42 pm
Had another study of the photo. Updated.

The big ring is about 10mm smaller than the crank length, which might make it 160 mm, x 2 = 320, x 3.1415 = 1005, divided by 25.4 = 39.5”, x 0.5 = 79 teeth.

The sprocket looks a 28.

There’s another ring behind, which might be 12 teeth smaller. 67.

So a ‘low’ gear of 55”. Not rediculous if the roads have no hills.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: L CC on 18 March, 2015, 12:45:29 pm
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bxkhik9CcAAKA4H.jpg)

Phwoooar.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: andyoxon on 18 March, 2015, 12:52:32 pm
Makes for an interesting dynamic now that Kurt has someone who will finish after him.  I wonder if it will spur Steve on to go for 100 000 miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Jethro on 18 March, 2015, 12:54:26 pm
I once had a 57t ring on my time-trial bike and that was tiny to what I see there.

My guess would be that outer ring is about an 80t
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 18 March, 2015, 12:55:32 pm
Well, with a couple of clicks I've uncovered the answer to the most important question: what's his nom de velo?

https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1)

Miles 'Big-Ring' Smith.

I'm sure we could suggest something better than that.

Yes, "big-ring" just sounds like he needs some serious saddle readjustment and perhaps some time off the bike.

Some alternatives:

Miles "miles" Smith
Miles "kilometres" Smith
Miles "to go" Smith
Miles "covered so far" Smith
Miles "IronTarzanGrinder" Smith
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wobbly on 18 March, 2015, 01:43:14 pm
The size of his ring had my eyes watering, I can't comprehend the pain that pushing a ring that big must entail. He must have thighs the size of very very big thighs.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bxkhik9CcAAKA4H.jpg)

I'm sure Steve rode fixed with a chain ring that big on LEL 2001...

And, doesn't the word "ring" mean something quite different in Auspeak?  :sick:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: aoxomoxoa on 18 March, 2015, 01:52:06 pm
Well, with a couple of clicks I've uncovered the answer to the most important question: what's his nom de velo?

https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1)

Miles 'Big-Ring' Smith.

I'm sure we could suggest something better than that.

Yes, "big-ring" just sounds like he needs some serious saddle readjustment and perhaps some time off the bike.

Some alternatives:

Miles "miles" Smith
Miles "kilometres" Smith
Miles "to go" Smith
Miles "covered so far" Smith
Miles "IronTarzanGrinder" Smith

Miles "smiles" Smith - with a nod to the late great Miles Davis.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ashaman42 on 18 March, 2015, 01:54:57 pm
Miles "prower" Smith?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 02:33:20 pm
I once had a 57t ring on my time-trial bike and that was tiny to what I see there.

My guess would be that outer ring is about an 80t

Updated my earlier post.
Yup, its about 79 or 80.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SandyV on 18 March, 2015, 02:36:32 pm
Miles does indeed put the miles in and that is his Audax bike (it always catches attention and is a talking point). He rode from Victoria to Queensland to do a 1,000 here last year (taking in 3x600 and 1 x 300 Audaxes on the way) and then rode home via Sydney for some other rides.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 02:44:59 pm
You never know, it might be a 14 x 28 nine speed which with a 80t ring, gives 154” high.

Downhill with his bum off the seat spinning that gear at 100 rpm might get him 45 mph. That would require 300 W down a 5%.  Possible, and something to think about.
How long and straight are the hills in Australia?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: marcusjb on 18 March, 2015, 02:45:50 pm
Miles does indeed put the miles in and that is his Audax bike (it always catches attention and is a talking point). He rode from Victoria to Queensland to do a 1,000 here last year (taking in 3x600 and 1 x 300 Audaxes on the way) and then rode home via Sydney for some other rides.

Well he sounds like he's definitely made of the right stuff!

The very best of luck to him over the coming year.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 02:50:24 pm
(http://i1085.photobucket.com/albums/j433/Lighthorse2/18062011024.jpg) (http://s1085.photobucket.com/user/Lighthorse2/media/18062011024.jpg.html)
Here's my Audax bike.

We're two of a kind....  ;D
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Canardly on 18 March, 2015, 03:06:37 pm
Are we sure he's not related to TG?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 03:19:59 pm
Are we sure he's not related to TG?

Go back far enough, we're ALL related.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 18 March, 2015, 03:45:13 pm
Well, with a couple of clicks I've uncovered the answer to the most important question: what's his nom de velo?

https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/robflyte/status/511472851505799168/photo/1)

Miles 'Big-Ring' Smith.

I'm sure we could suggest something better than that.

Yes, "big-ring" just sounds like he needs some serious saddle readjustment and perhaps some time off the bike.

Some alternatives:

Miles "miles" Smith
Miles "kilometres" Smith
Miles "to go" Smith
Miles "covered so far" Smith
Miles "IronTarzanGrinder" Smith

Miles "smiles" Smith - with a nod to the late great Miles Davis.

Miles Marathon (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Handley_Page_Marathon) Smith?

Or Mohawk, or Magister, or Master, or even Hobby?

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 18 March, 2015, 05:05:15 pm
Miles "Koala Shagger" Smith

"Why do Koala bears eat eucalyptus"
(NSFW)
(click to show/hide)

 :demon:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 18 March, 2015, 05:10:29 pm
Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 18 March, 2015, 05:16:48 pm
I cannot figure out how that chainring can be a good idea.  In the hills, you are going to get a weight penalty from it, the cassette and the chain itself (for example).   Each to their own though.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 18 March, 2015, 05:57:11 pm
"About 5" Miles Smith

*tips hat to Rich Forrest*
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mcshroom on 18 March, 2015, 06:44:06 pm
'Loadsa' Miles Smith ? :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 07:17:34 pm
Miles "Koala Shagger" Smith

"Why do Koala bears eat eucalyptus"
(NSFW)
(click to show/hide)

 :demon:

Now Hillbilly is going to tell us how 1980s pop group 'Blow monkeys' got their name.

Apparently, Rolf Harris was one.  ;)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 07:22:50 pm
(http://i1085.photobucket.com/albums/j433/Lighthorse2/Steve_01_zpsretfmm2j.jpeg) (http://s1085.photobucket.com/user/Lighthorse2/media/Steve_01_zpsretfmm2j.jpeg.html)

"Can you see what it is yet?"
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 18 March, 2015, 07:31:24 pm
Are we sure he's not related to TG?

Go back far enough, we're ALL related.

Yes.  Descended from Gibbons.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Jaded on 18 March, 2015, 07:44:30 pm
(http://i1085.photobucket.com/albums/j433/Lighthorse2/Steve_01_zpsretfmm2j.jpeg) (http://s1085.photobucket.com/user/Lighthorse2/media/Steve_01_zpsretfmm2j.jpeg.html)

"Can you see what it is yet?"

Do you want him in your gang, your gang?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Charlie Boy on 18 March, 2015, 08:02:52 pm
The size of his ring had my eyes watering, I can't comprehend the pain that pushing a ring that big must entail. He must have thighs the size of very very big thighs.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Bxkhik9CcAAKA4H.jpg)


Drink confirmed as Coopers Pale https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=727823687252798&id=282941611741010

Must be even flatter than Florida.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 18 March, 2015, 09:23:34 pm
(http://i1085.photobucket.com/albums/j433/Lighthorse2/Steve_01_zpsretfmm2j.jpeg) (http://s1085.photobucket.com/user/Lighthorse2/media/Steve_01_zpsretfmm2j.jpeg.html)

"Can you see what it is yet?"

Do you want him in your gang, your gang?

Not even if Jim could fix it.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Salvatore on 19 March, 2015, 09:08:46 am
Did he make that chainring himself? In his own forge? Using bellows, hammer and anvil?

If so, he must be Miles "Black" Smith.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Cudzoziemiec on 19 March, 2015, 09:25:31 am
Miles "to go before I sleep" Smith.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 19 March, 2015, 10:13:01 am
;D
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 19 March, 2015, 10:16:10 am
Are we sure he is not a midget and that is a normal chainring on a very small bike?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 March, 2015, 10:17:21 am
Are we sure he is not a midget and that is a normal chainring on a very small bike?

Is it far away?


 ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SandyV on 20 March, 2015, 09:06:54 pm
This weekend Miles is one of 25 riding the Geelong Flyer 1000.  He's not carrying a tracker but you can follow a number of the riders at http://audax.org.au/tracker/#description (http://audax.org.au/tracker/#description) or here https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=812751642093335&id=282941611741010 (https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=812751642093335&id=282941611741010)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Frank9755 on 21 March, 2015, 11:04:51 am
How about 'Kneegrinder'...?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Jack_P on 22 March, 2015, 08:29:20 am
How about 'Kneegrinder'...?

 :thumbsup: ;D
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 22 March, 2015, 11:32:47 pm
Just like to point out that the only person to hold the year record twice was also from Victoria, Ossie Nicholson.

He got it by cycling Melbourne to Portsea (http://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/Melbourne+VIC,+Australia/Portsea+VIC,+Australia/@-38.0922054,144.6247499,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad646b5d2ba4df7:0x4045675218ccd90!2m2!1d144.96328!2d-37.814107!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad436084c799351:0x5045675218ce540!2m2!1d144.7141685!2d-38.3202726!3e1?hl=en) and back every day for a year, and won it again by doing that twice a day for at least part of the year.

I hope Miles chooses a more interesting approach.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 23 March, 2015, 06:40:10 am
Just like to point out that the only person to hold the year record twice was also from Victoria, Ossie Nicholson.

He got it by cycling Melbourne to Portsea (http://"https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/Melbourne+VIC,+Australia/Portsea+VIC,+Australia/@-38.0922054,144.6247499,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad646b5d2ba4df7:0x4045675218ccd90!2m2!1d144.96328!2d-37.814107!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad436084c799351:0x5045675218ce540!2m2!1d144.7141685!2d-38.3202726!3e1?hl=en") and back every day for a year, and won it again by doing that twice a day for at least part of the year.

I hope Miles chooses a more interesting approach.

Linky no worky. :(
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 23 March, 2015, 08:56:57 am
Linky no worky. :(

Fixed. It's just a google maps link anyway, but it works now.

Melbourne to Portsea (http://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/Melbourne+VIC,+Australia/Portsea+VIC,+Australia/@-38.0922054,144.6247499,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad646b5d2ba4df7:0x4045675218ccd90!2m2!1d144.96328!2d-37.814107!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad436084c799351:0x5045675218ce540!2m2!1d144.7141685!2d-38.3202726!3e1?hl=en)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 23 March, 2015, 11:17:37 am
http://goo.gl/maps/UzMXN

Is that him?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: paul851 on 23 March, 2015, 11:30:45 am
Ironically Miles Smith has in all likely hood just about finished the Geelong flyer 1000 today that finishes roughly 40 km from Portsea .
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Nuncio on 25 March, 2015, 08:20:45 am
More information about Miles from 'Gassy' on the Australian forum.

Quote
Very Interesting.. I know Miles fairly well. Another crazy pom, ( albeit an expat living here is Aus ). He's a nice guy, and somewhat crazy, probably has the potential though.

He's just finished the Adelaide to Geelong 1000k Audax ride this week. Last week he did over 500k in 24hrs during the Opperman.( Bairnsdale to Rochester via Hotham) He seems to be able to keep cranking out the kms okay. He works a permanent nightshift somewhere in the city- Maybe he gets to nod off a bit ??

We both rode our first 600k audax ride out of Bairnsdale only 2 years ago. The bug seems to have bitten him though, I think he did nearly all the 1000/1200 k audax rides in Australia last year ( 5 or 6??) Not sure what sort of annual mileage he cranks out though as he's not on Strava.

On the last audax ride I did (600k great ocean road end of feb) he rode from home ( Mornington area) to city for work, worked his night shift, then rode down to Geelong, did the 600 and had plans to ride back to Warragul afterwards so he could do a 2 day 100/100 Baw Baw ride.

He's recently joined my bike club out at Croydon. He's been riding from his home into the city, then out to Croydon, doing the club ride ( around 100k) then riding home. (250ish) I will suss out his plans and intentions when I see him next, possibly Sunday. I would guess he will have to start logging onto strava or something. He can most easily be recognized while riding because of his front chain ring which is the size of a dinner plate
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 25 March, 2015, 08:26:28 am
I hereby appoint Nuncio as YACF's ambassador to the United Nations.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: HTFB on 25 March, 2015, 11:46:29 am
I think the Pope got there first.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Andrij on 25 March, 2015, 12:28:51 pm
I think the Pope got there first.

Francis, or one of the two Theodore IIs? (disambiguation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_%28disambiguation%29#Religious_offices))
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: geraldc on 25 March, 2015, 12:45:29 pm
It will interesting to see what bikes he'll be using for the challenge. That big ring is hardly a standard item.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: HTFB on 25 March, 2015, 05:40:01 pm
Francis, or one of the two Theodore IIs? (disambiguation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_%28disambiguation%29#Religious_offices))
The Pope of Rome. Neither of the others appoints apostolic nuncios, as far as I can wholly see (geddit?). Though they do receive the nuncios that Francis sends them.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mattc on 25 March, 2015, 07:44:32 pm
So he rides in Croydon.

I think Tarzan still gets the best place names to ride through.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Nuncio on 25 March, 2015, 08:13:53 pm
Not THE best, though.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 31 March, 2015, 09:11:19 am
I'm looking forward to the 11th, the challenge has been a bit flat these last two days.  No disrespect to Kurt intended, he's proven himself a gent and I shall be following and wishing him well the rest of the year.  All the same a bit of competition, even though it isn't, adds something.

Can I suggest that when Miles gets going rather than using this thread and growing it to umpty zillion posts we have a thread per day like Steve?  IMHO the format used for Steve works better than that in progress for Kurt.  It went down well and stuck when Vince added the day number to the date on Steve's daily progress thread title.  A logical extension of that would be:
April 11 - Miles Smith - Day 1.
etc.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Jaded on 31 March, 2015, 10:58:32 am
Agreed, that sounds good.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mzjo on 31 March, 2015, 01:51:47 pm
Is there any way of putting the or a Kurt thread under the same format post april 11 so that we can get back to following each rider's mileage each day? The timezone difference might make it a bit difficult to say which one is on which day compared to us but it would make following the whole thing much easier and more interesting than just watching the spreadsheet. The Tarzan thread seems to have got a bit out of hand recently.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 06 April, 2015, 06:52:06 pm
Does anyone have Miles's contact details or his Strava name (can't find anything obvious through searching)? I'd like to be able to add him to the OYTT visualization when he starts next week, but I'll have trouble without access to his tracks on Strava.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 06 April, 2015, 06:58:31 pm
Does anyone have Miles's contact details or his Strava name (can't find anything obvious through searching)? I'd like to be able to add him to the OYTT visualization when he starts next week, but I'll have trouble without access to his tracks on Strava.

He should appear under HAM'R but I looked and couldn't find either.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 06 April, 2015, 07:22:43 pm
I thought Sandy said she knew him.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SandyV on 06 April, 2015, 11:40:04 pm
Quite so.  PM sent to Jo.
Sandy
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 09 April, 2015, 03:17:15 pm
Miles is now on Strava. He's joined the HAM'R group.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 09 April, 2015, 03:52:25 pm
Yup - the data look good to go. Thanks to Sandy, I've been in touch with Miles and his team and I'll be adding his rides to the OYTT from Saturday onwards.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 09 April, 2015, 04:13:52 pm
Just like to point out that the only person to hold the year record twice was also from Victoria, Ossie Nicholson.

He got it by cycling Melbourne to Portsea (http://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/Melbourne+VIC,+Australia/Portsea+VIC,+Australia/@-38.0922054,144.6247499,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad646b5d2ba4df7:0x4045675218ccd90!2m2!1d144.96328!2d-37.814107!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad436084c799351:0x5045675218ce540!2m2!1d144.7141685!2d-38.3202726!3e1?hl=en) and back every day for a year, and won it again by doing that twice a day for at least part of the year.

I hope Miles chooses a more interesting approach.

And here is Miles, doing that route (nearly - Portsea would involve continuing around the bay as far as he could go, about another 20 km)

https://www.strava.com/activities/281342306
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Gabrielle260 on 12 April, 2015, 12:14:34 am
Miles' website is now up; www.gomiles.com.au and there is some interesting reading there about his bikes, gearing and equipment.
He is a relative newcomer but as I saw yesterday at the breakfast, has the liking and respect of many in the Audax community here.
Just as an aside, even in my peak I don't think I ever looked as fresh after a 200km ride as Miles did at the breakfast yesterday.
Go Miles!!

Andrew
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ham on 12 April, 2015, 07:45:14 am
The man appears to be cut from the right cloth...

Quote
This bike gets ridden as my commuter, about 155 km (96 miles) per day

Having done that for a while as Km instead of miles, I know I'm not.

Go miles, Miles!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 12 April, 2015, 07:57:22 am
Although not posted to Strava (yet?), it appears that our antipodean chum has boshed off around 600km on his first day (see Twitter feed). If so, then this is very respectable and, as said below, he is definately "cut from the right cloth".
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 12 April, 2015, 08:02:19 am
Some of that will be 'day 2', as in Melbourne it is currently 5pm on his second day, but I agree he will be a formidable challenger.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 12 April, 2015, 08:13:46 am
Just spent a few minutes reading his web page. He intends to copy Ossie Nicholson and ride up and down the same stretch of road all year. Riding a bike that much is hard enough mentally, but up and down the same bit of road? It will drive him round the bend!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 12 April, 2015, 08:18:59 am
I hope there are some bends.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: LMT on 12 April, 2015, 08:20:22 am
I do admire the mentality and practicality of this attempt.

Ride the same route day in, day out. And when you are tired/bored/frustrated you think back to Nicholson doing the same thing in 1933 & 1937.

Good luck to the man.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 12 April, 2015, 08:33:41 am
Well, according to another post on here, he used to commute most (160km of 200km!) of that route daily.  So he already knows he can do it mentally. 

I know that road well.  It's enormously popular with cyclists, though it has been the source of some conflicts with motorists.  It's a beautiful route, mostly along the beach.    Very exposed when storms come across the bay, but I guess he's used to that too.

From his website he's running a spot tracker, so you can see he's still moving.

http://share.findmespot.com/shared/faces/viewspots.jsp?glId=0CRBBQbhAxqUlA9HU7TqKCimrY7xD03KT
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: andyoxon on 12 April, 2015, 11:51:34 am
I'm hoping there will be a single yacf thread for Miles Smith, like that for Kurt S, rather than a new thread each day -  which we need for Steve...   :)

Good luck Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Hummers on 12 April, 2015, 12:17:46 pm
I'm hoping there will be a single yacf thread for Miles Smith, like that for Kurt S, rather than a new thread each day -  which we need for Steve...   :)

Good luck Miles.

Agreed.

All the best to Miles but I am sure  Steve appreciates the support on here.

H
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 12 April, 2015, 03:03:01 pm
Perhaps we should simply just copy and paste the same posts every day, given his monotonous schedule.

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 12 April, 2015, 03:10:37 pm
Well, according to another post on here, he used to commute most (160km of 200km!) of that route daily.  So he already knows he can do it mentally. 

I know that road well.  It's enormously popular with cyclists, though it has been the source of some conflicts with motorists.  It's a beautiful route, mostly along the beach.    Very exposed when storms come across the bay, but I guess he's used to that too.

I hope not for at least the next 365 days.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 12 April, 2015, 03:32:07 pm
Beach road is a huge chain gang road - first thing in the morning every day -- ie 5.00am -about 50 cyclists in each group ( the Pirates,The racing gang,Beach Boys etc etc ),going flat out .Superb road to ride - so these guys are all clocking along at 40+ kms an hour - even I managed to hold on to one group ONCE - but right at the back .You can imagine why motorists are not happy.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 12 April, 2015, 04:09:20 pm
I went to see what the latest was on beach road, and found Beach Road cyclist left with fractured skull in wake of "Hell Ride" (http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/beach-road-cyclist-left-with-fractured-skull-in-wake-of-hell-ride-20150310-140hiq.html).

Maybe Miles should be careful of the other cyclists  :hand:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 12 April, 2015, 04:23:07 pm
They do sound like a bunch of idiots. :(
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ham on 12 April, 2015, 05:14:28 pm
Here's what they look like
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcHfknXOjcE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SS7SQJwnGNo
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 12 April, 2015, 05:43:17 pm
They do sound like a bunch of idiots. :(

^+1
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mattc on 12 April, 2015, 05:46:06 pm
You can imagine why motorists are not happy.
Because there is a piece of tarmac where the motor car is NOT the dominant species?
Or because a load of people are having more fun than them?

It sounds great. No doubt there are a few dickheads - but the same applies to motons on any given road, globally.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 12 April, 2015, 05:56:24 pm
You can imagine why motorists are not happy.
Because there is a piece of tarmac where the motor car is NOT the dominant species?
Or because a load of people are having more fun than them?

It sounds great. No doubt there are a few dickheads - but the same applies to motons on any given road, globally.

Unfortunately Matt, when you get a big bunch of good riders together, testosterone takes over. I did the Tom Simpson reliabilty ride last year and the behaviour of MOST riders towards oncoming traffic was abominable. I was embarrassed to be there at times. It was a nasty accident waiting to happen. Thankfully, on that day it didn't.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ham on 12 April, 2015, 06:01:36 pm
This was written in 2010 http://cyclingtips.com.au/2010/05/the-hell-ride-bites-again/

So, after 2006 when a pedestrian was killed but before the most recent crash reported when three cyclists were hospitalised, by all accounts there are a lot more incidents.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Gabrielle260 on 18 April, 2015, 10:07:04 pm
It's 7am here in Melbourne and I've woken to tropical strength rain and strong winds. I think there may have been some hail in there. Just checked the tracker and Miles is near home. Hopefully he's able to avoid it as it was the sort of rain where cars pull over and stop on the freeways!!
The weather radar shows its passing through so Miles may be able to get back into it soon.
I can't remember rain this hard in Melbourne in the last 12 months.
Andrew
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 20 April, 2015, 07:58:07 am
Looks like whoever said he was going to do the same route all year was blowing smoke.  He rode a different route over the weekend, which is disappointing as I can no longer use the oh-so-hilarious Groundhog Day meme. 

Based on Strava, it looks like he flew back home as well.  Literally.  I don't think all of those miles will count...
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 20 April, 2015, 08:47:07 am
Looks like a nice ride.  I didn't do long distance cycling when I lived in Australia.  Just had a look at a bit of it.  The Hume Hwy is the most direct route for cars between Melbourne and Sydney.  It's been replaced with a motorway - at least until the border with NSW.  Anyway, that leaves a divided road (dual carriageway) unused except for local traffic.

https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@-36.459105,146.230413,3a,75y,34.41h,75.37t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1swAVdJRUxjGCA0TIEBbltCQ!2e0?hl=en
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 20 April, 2015, 09:13:22 pm
I'm a little disappointed in the unreliability of Miles' uploads. Sometimes more than 24 hours late, a couple of what appear to be missing uploads (e.g. 14th and maybe 17th/18th) and his latest for 20th April seems to include non-cycling transport back to Melbourne mixed in with the track for his ride. It all makes it really quite hard to work out exactly how many official miles he has ridden.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 20 April, 2015, 09:54:29 pm
This ^^^

Get your 5h1t in order, Miles, or I'll stop kudossing you on Strava.  Hell, I might even unfollow you...
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 21 April, 2015, 07:33:59 am
I'm a little disappointed in the unreliability of Miles' uploads. Sometimes more than 24 hours late, a couple of what appear to be missing uploads (e.g. 14th and maybe 17th/18th) and his latest for 20th April seems to include non-cycling transport back to Melbourne mixed in with the track for his ride. It all makes it really quite hard to work out exactly how many official miles he has ridden.
Not arf.  He has fixed the rail journey home sacrificing the legitimate time in the saddle when he got back to Melbourne but it's still not right.  I've done some analysis, watch for another thread this morning.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Pmathews on 23 April, 2015, 01:34:15 pm
G'day,

I'm Peter Mathews, one of the Audax Oz mob supporting Miles' HMR attempt. I'm his data minder and can tell you it's been a rough start. Both Strava and the HM'R leaderboard are out of whack. However our tally agrees exactly with the data Drew harvested separately from MIles' Garmin site (phew).

Miles basic route is up and down the Port Phillip Bay between Melbourne and Portsea. It is 200 km per cycle. As things settle down Miles will head away from Melbourne for a change of scenery and to participate in some long Audax events. Logistically we are still working out the best ways to manage this in terms of support, sleep, food and data management but stay tuned.

As of day 11 Miles Smith's tally is 2332.62miles (3753.988001km) or an average of 212.0563636 miles per day (341.2716365km). This is the data taken from his Garmin and tallies exactly with the data Drew distributed to each team yesterday.

We are building a website at gomiles.com.au - where you can see that each of his bikes has HUGE front rings. When Miles turned up for his first Audax Oz event only a couple of years ago (it was 1,000 km) we all looked at the ring in horror. But, believe me, he's like a big diesel and just cranks out the miles.

I think Miles would like to ramp up the miles per day once he settles into the routine of this a bit.
Strava is killing the data at present and misinterprets data loaded from the Garmin site consistently.  This was the cause of the Wangaratta "glitch". Please note that Mile's Garmin was paused during the train trip back to Melbourne and did not in fact record that distance. The total distance travelled in that leg was 21.09 miles (distance from Wang to Melb is about 155 miles). This was the distance from his sleep stop at an Audax Club member's place outside Wangaratta (with a bit of wandering around looking for food and stuff) plus the distance from the Melbourne train station to his place and back to Abbottsford Cycles on Monday morning to upload the data.

Hope this helps, and if you have other queries or comments please drop me a line here or to pmathews.mob@gmail.com.

Mr Fidgetbuzz should note that Miles is on of Keith's wednesday warriors!

Cheez,

PeterM
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 23 April, 2015, 01:52:20 pm
G'day,

I'm Peter Mathews, one of the Audax Oz mob supporting Miles' HMR attempt. I'm his data minder and can tell you it's been a rough start. Both Strava and the HM'R leaderboard are out of whack. However our tally agrees exactly with the data Drew harvested separately from MIles' Garmin site (phew).

Miles basic route is up and down the Port Phillip Bay between Melbourne and Portsea. It is 200 km per cycle. As things settle down Miles will head away from Melbourne for a change of scenery and to participate in some long Audax events. Logistically we are still working out the best ways to manage this in terms of support, sleep, food and data management but stay tuned.

As of day 11 Miles Smith's tally is 2332.62miles (3753.988001km) or an average of 212.0563636 miles per day (341.2716365km). This is the data taken from his Garmin and tallies exactly with the data Drew distributed to each team yesterday.

We are building a website at gomiles.com.au - where you can see that each of his bikes has HUGE front rings. When Miles turned up for his first Audax Oz event only a couple of years ago (it was 1,000 km) we all looked at the ring in horror. But, believe me, he's like a big diesel and just cranks out the miles.

I think Miles would like to ramp up the miles per day once he settles into the routine of this a bit.
Strava is killing the data at present and misinterprets data loaded from the Garmin site consistently.  This was the cause of the Wangaratta "glitch". Please note that Mile's Garmin was paused during the train trip back to Melbourne and did not in fact record that distance. The total distance travelled in that leg was 21.09 miles (distance from Wang to Melb is about 155 miles). This was the distance from his sleep stop at an Audax Club member's place outside Wangaratta (with a bit of wandering around looking for food and stuff) plus the distance from the Melbourne train station to his place and back to Abbottsford Cycles on Monday morning to upload the data.

Hope this helps, and if you have other queries or comments please drop me a line here or to pmathews.mob@gmail.com.

Mr Fidgetbuzz should note that Miles is on of Keith's wednesday warriors!

Cheez,

PeterM

Are you the Pete Matthews originally from Liverpool?

Respect.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 23 April, 2015, 01:54:29 pm
This Pete has been Audax Oz president. Not the bloke you are thinking of.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 23 April, 2015, 01:55:43 pm
This Pete has been Audax Oz president. Not the bloke you are thinking of.

Just noticed. Different spelling.   :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 23 April, 2015, 02:07:47 pm
Strava' interpretation of split tracks is bad and wrong.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 23 April, 2015, 02:50:18 pm
3753.988001km?! Somehow I don't think any Garmin system is accurate to 1mm :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: danridesbikes on 23 April, 2015, 07:26:04 pm
start pedalling, click go on Garmin, finish ride/jump on transport and click stop and reset

how hard can it be to get the basics right?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 23 April, 2015, 07:43:01 pm
Well, as the data minder doesn't understand significant figures, maybe it can be quite hard.

(sorry Peter  :-* )
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Pmathews on 23 April, 2015, 10:59:17 pm
As it was all getting a bit excitable I didn't clip the spreadsheet numbers, and you never know when that extra mm may come in handy.

One of Miles quirks is that he doesn't like tech on the bike. Getting the Garmin was a major concession.  A little more button work will get us there.

PeterM




Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 23 April, 2015, 11:28:31 pm
If you stop the garmin recording, transfer, and start again, Strava joins the two segments with a straight line. It's really annoying.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 24 April, 2015, 07:48:54 am
Miles sounds like a proper antipodean audax headbanger. Looking forward to seeing how he racks up the distance over the year, as I'd imagine there are going to be some huge rides :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 24 April, 2015, 07:58:17 am
Miles sounds like a proper antipodean audax headbanger. Looking forward to seeing how he racks up the distance over the year, as I'd imagine there are going to be some huge rides :thumbsup:

He's pommy, though, I understand.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 24 April, 2015, 08:19:21 am
If he was an Aussie, he'd be Kilometers Smith.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 24 April, 2015, 10:08:28 am
 :)

He's over 50 so he was named well before Australia went metric.  Oddly though, I don't think i ever met a Miles in australia, but it's a pretty common name in UK.  Actually, most men his age in Australia are called David. 
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Nuncio on 24 April, 2015, 11:20:53 am
Not Bruce?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 24 April, 2015, 12:30:49 pm
The Bruce-thing is the stuff of British comedy, and - like the hats with corks on it - very rarely seen in the wild.

But David: I organised something for a bunch of people, not all of whom know each other.  Afterwards I introduced those who had not met before.  I can still remember my exact words "David, this is David, David, David and - eh - David"
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 April, 2015, 02:13:37 pm
My grate frend Dr Butcher, a BRITON, used to get very cross when someone would tell her "Dave rang for you" since she knew eighteen Daves.  And this was before the TV channel of that ilk was invented.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: L CC on 24 April, 2015, 02:39:57 pm
(http://www.tredz.co.uk/assets/Images/StaticPage/VoucherCode/Week9SaturdayBanner_2_01.jpg)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: geraldc on 24 April, 2015, 02:42:36 pm
What about 'Sheila'?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 April, 2015, 02:47:30 pm
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/18/TheLeagueOfGentlemen-PapaLazarou.jpg)

Hello Daaaaaaave!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 24 April, 2015, 02:58:51 pm
Oh FFS beaten to it.

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 24 April, 2015, 10:01:05 pm
My work here is done :demon:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mattc on 24 April, 2015, 11:57:39 pm
Latest graphs on jo's analysis thread are worth looking at - the "time of day" chart for Miles is bonkers!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Gabrielle260 on 25 April, 2015, 12:37:29 am
:)

He's over 50 so he was named well before Australia went metric.  Oddly though, I don't think i ever met a Miles in australia, but it's a pretty common name in UK.  Actually, most men his age in Australia are called David.
I wasn't going to comment but here goes.... "Most men his age in Australia are called David" is about as stupid and misleading a comment as saying kangaroos hop down the streets. C'mon, you don't believe that, do you? That's like saying all Poms have kippers for breakfast.
Andrew (whose middle name is David)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Gabrielle260 on 25 April, 2015, 12:40:26 am
Latest graphs on jo's analysis thread are worth looking at - the "time of day" chart for Miles is bonkers!
Yes, I've been checking his spot tracker at odd hours of the night.... The years of night shift seem to have made Miles immune to circadian rhythms!
Andrew (otherwise known as David)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jsabine on 25 April, 2015, 12:41:45 am
"Most men his age in Australia are called David" is about as stupid and misleading a comment as saying kangaroos hop down the streets.

(NB that jefmcg *is* Australian. I think she may have been making a FUNNY. See also her "David, meet David, David and David" anecdote.)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 25 April, 2015, 06:06:22 am
It is also mostly correct. I am a middle-aged Aussie Dave and it was the most common boy's name through my school years.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 25 April, 2015, 07:10:20 am
My old flat mate spent a year in London.  He joined Dartford (or was it Deptford) Morris dancing club* and was known as Aussie Dave #2.

**yes, I shared a flat with a Morris dancer.  It's a part of my life that I try to forget.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Laid Back Rich on 25 April, 2015, 03:26:33 pm
It is also mostly correct. I am a middle-aged Aussie Dave and it was the most common boy's name through my school years.

I can offer further evidence...I am a middle-aged pom and I am not called David. Hope that helps.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ningishzidda on 25 April, 2015, 07:43:42 pm
I've got 190 blokes on my family tree with my surname, and only ONE is a David. Born 1960.

Amongst them are
32 Thomas, 9 Richard and 8 Henry.

So an ancestor of mine could be any Tom, Dick or Harry.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 25 April, 2015, 10:50:15 pm
Miles' activity pattern (see visualising thread) seems utterly unsustainable to me, does he actually sleep? That much disruption to your body rhythms is surely going to pay havoc with the body eventually? I'm no expert and I don't know Miles but it does look a bit bonkers.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ivo on 25 April, 2015, 10:59:47 pm
Miles' activity pattern (see visualising thread) seems utterly unsustainable to me, does he actually sleep? That much disruption to your body rhythms is surely going to pay havoc with the body eventually? I'm no expert and I don't know Miles but it does look a bit bonkers.

Anyone who works shifts for many years doesn't have a body rhtyhm anymore. So he/she can ride whenever it's needed, not when your bodyclock tells you to do so.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Salvatore on 28 April, 2015, 12:22:51 pm
Miles' activity pattern (see visualising thread) seems utterly unsustainable to me, does he actually sleep? That much disruption to your body rhythms is surely going to pay havoc with the body eventually? I'm no expert and I don't know Miles but it does look a bit bonkers.

Anyone who works shifts for many years doesn't have a body rhtyhm anymore. So he/she can ride whenever it's needed, not when your bodyclock tells you to do so.

12 minutes ago

(http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff320/jspooner99/Screenshot_2015-04-28_12-19-10_zpsfjpohqxj.png) (http://s238.photobucket.com/user/jspooner99/media/Screenshot_2015-04-28_12-19-10_zpsfjpohqxj.png.html)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 28 April, 2015, 12:24:42 pm
He looks pretty knackered in that photo.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 28 April, 2015, 02:22:47 pm
Good to see him modelling himself after a Gibbontime tomato.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 28 April, 2015, 04:22:22 pm

12 minutes ago

(http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff320/jspooner99/Screenshot_2015-04-28_12-19-10_zpsfjpohqxj.png) (http://s238.photobucket.com/user/jspooner99/media/Screenshot_2015-04-28_12-19-10_zpsfjpohqxj.png.html)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGgn5nwYtj0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGgn5nwYtj0
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 May, 2015, 09:10:51 am
Is Miles still haemorrhaging ridden miles  or finding the challenge wearying?  He started out consistently hitting over 200mpd but for the last week or so any 200+ days are followed by a day of little over 100.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 12 May, 2015, 04:04:42 pm
I stopped following him on Strava as he keeps posting dozens of short rides or duff activities of just a few metres. It's not that technically challenging to stop and start a Garmin and upload rides.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 13 May, 2015, 08:55:08 am
I stopped following him on Strava as he keeps posting dozens of short rides or duff activities of just a few metres. It's not that technically challenging to stop and start a Garmin and upload rides.

He's clearly still struggling.
(http://mcgalliard.org/miles.jpg)
(and a couple of sarcastic kudos-givers aren't helping!)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 13 May, 2015, 10:05:25 am
His Garmin Connect is much cleaner.

Things went from bad to worse on the 8th when he got a 2nd Garmin, at a guess he's switching bikes and now leaves one Garmin on each.  The first problem is that his bike fettler keeps switching the Garmin on on his parked bike, this is creating short track miles away from Miles true location.  These appear on Strava and hence UMCA.  Second problem is other people joining Miles on a ride and then submitting the track to Miles Stava account (and hence UMCA).

Neither of these problems affect his Garmin account.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 13 May, 2015, 02:14:51 pm
Someone on here offered to help out his support crew - did anything come of that?

It would be a real shame if his efforts come to naught. As far as I can tell from the hamr site, his recorded miles average at only 168 per day.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Otto on 15 May, 2015, 10:19:23 am
He looks pretty knackered in that photo.

He actually looks Radioactive
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Andydauddwr on 15 May, 2015, 11:51:18 am
There's an interview with him here:
http://cyclingtips.com.au/2015/05/miles-and-miles-what-it-takes-to-attempt-the-year-record/ (http://cyclingtips.com.au/2015/05/miles-and-miles-what-it-takes-to-attempt-the-year-record/)

A good read, gives an idea of what his challenge is all about.  Also confirms that Steve was his motivation in attempting the challenge which I wasn't aware of.  On the face of it, he does seem to have the edge on media skilz...
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 15 May, 2015, 07:28:41 pm
There's an interview with him here:
http://cyclingtips.com.au/2015/05/miles-and-miles-what-it-takes-to-attempt-the-year-record/ (http://cyclingtips.com.au/2015/05/miles-and-miles-what-it-takes-to-attempt-the-year-record/)
 
Quote
I’ve got three kids. Each bike is named after the kids (Joe, Emilia, David). 
Actually, most men (his age)  in Australia are called David.
I think my point is made
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: woollypigs on 15 May, 2015, 08:08:18 pm
Quote
I’ve got three kids. Each bike is named after the kids (Joe, Emilia, David). 
Call himself a cyclist or is that an editorial error - shouldn't that be each kid named after the bikes?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Salvatore on 22 May, 2015, 06:00:25 am
From @GoMilesAU on twitter an hour ago:

Quote
Oh dear..Miles has fallen victim to a chesty cold and won't be riding anywhere too soon. Time for some brake repairs. http://t.co/ynrOwkLFs7
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: tonyh on 22 May, 2015, 07:37:39 am
Wishing him good recovery!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: woollypigs on 22 May, 2015, 01:03:17 pm
GWS
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: woollypigs on 26 May, 2015, 12:51:29 pm
According to farcebook he is suffering from a partial collapsed lung, fecking heck! GWS!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hatler on 26 May, 2015, 01:28:04 pm
Ooooof. Not good.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 26 May, 2015, 01:53:48 pm
Flippin 'eck!  GWS Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 26 May, 2015, 01:55:21 pm
More underlining just how tough is this challenge.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 26 May, 2015, 01:57:35 pm
If he's like similarly driven people I've come across over the years, I suspect the conversation went something like:

Doctor: I'm afraid your lung has partially collapsed
Miles: Partially, that means not all of it?
Doctor: Yes
Miles: So that means most of my lungs are working
Doctor: Yes, I suppose they are...
Miles: So if I rest for a couple of days, I can cycle?
Doctor: Well, I wouldn't recommend it but you might be able to do short distances after a couple of weeks
Miles: Is 250 miles short?
Doctor: Not really.  We're really speaking about much shorter distances than that. I wouldn't suggest....
Miles: Before you go on, can I ask about the what you are doing to my you know what with your you know what.  Is that necessary?
Dr DRE: No Diggity.

(More seriously - I hope he gets well soon.  Sounds oppressively challenge thwarting.)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 26 May, 2015, 02:04:44 pm
Remember that request to keep this sub board family friendly?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 26 May, 2015, 03:12:16 pm
Amended.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: marcusjb on 26 May, 2015, 03:22:09 pm
If it can be sorted without a chest drain, then he could be back up and running quickly (though probably not under the advice of the doctors). Neither of my collapsed lungs have been able to be solved with the needle through the rib cage and blow it up option. If he has to go the chest drain route, it could be 3-7 days with a drain in.

As soon as it is out, you are off though. I raced about 3 days after my first one was out.

If this is something new to Miles, then unfortunately, he is now as greater risk of it happening again. If it is a pre existing issue, he should have had elective surgery to minimise the risks (I have had it done to put my risks back down in the very low end of things).

Anyway, I hope for the best. If it is drains etc. then he is in for some serious discomfort and non movement.

Good luck and go miles!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 26 May, 2015, 06:51:10 pm
Not good.  I have suffered from a collapsed lung (I still have the scars - literally).  Hope Miles recovers quickly and completely.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: RichForrest on 31 May, 2015, 06:10:48 am
Facebook update saying he's restarting on the 18th of June as he's off target due to the illness and will have no chance to catch up the missed miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: miles smith on 05 June, 2015, 01:55:11 am
Hi Guys.

Just Joined the YACF as still not allowed on bike by Docs, and going nuts.

I will only be able to post upto 18th of June when we restart the Audax Oz HAM'R challenge.  Kindest Regards Miles. 
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: miles smith on 05 June, 2015, 02:16:37 am
Lung seems to be ok.  Several gifts of puncture repair outfits and one foot pump.  Very funny.

I didnt need to have space between lung and chest cavity drained as lung reinflated by use of respirator.  Must admit that the sudden feeling of a dull pain/heavy weight across the chest, shortness of breath led me to immediatly fear the worst, so inretrospect collapsed lung - not so bad as it could have been.

Have slept like a log for the past two weeks.  Weather here in (not so sunny) Melbourne is the worst since the 1950's for the start to Winter, both cold and wet. chest infection almost sorted - just wanna get back in the race. Miles.  (grammer and spell check buttons where are you?). 
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Oaky on 05 June, 2015, 04:13:01 am
Hi Miles - welcome to yacf - glad to hear you're on the mend.  All the best for your restart!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: tonyh on 05 June, 2015, 04:49:38 am
Seconded! Best wishes Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Jaded on 05 June, 2015, 05:40:23 am
Yes, good luck for the 18th and the following 365 days  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 05 June, 2015, 06:42:05 am
Good to hear from you Miles and good luck with your recovery and renewed attempt.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Aunt Maud on 05 June, 2015, 06:54:33 am
Hi Miles - welcome to yacf - glad to hear you're on the mend.  All the best for your restart!

Same.............Welcome.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Si_Co on 05 June, 2015, 07:04:03 am
Yes, good luck for the 18th and the following 365 days  :thumbsup:

+1 GWS
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 05 June, 2015, 07:52:09 am
Miles is now on YACF and has posted in the Kurt thread. No chest drain, but he's had significant pain and performance compromise. Hopefully he'll be back up and running very soon.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ham on 05 June, 2015, 08:50:27 am
+1 for the GWS

And Miles, can I apologise for the weather? It was clearly aimed at me as it all kicked off just as I arrived in Sydney on holiday. I am back in the UK now, but may not have been noticed with all the rain.

As I have noted elsewhere, I went to Australia expecting to see kangaroos, I didn't expect to see them lining up two by two with their luggage.

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 June, 2015, 09:00:38 am
GWS miles.

Maybe you need someone to help you relocate to WA - no problems with the weather there. And it is flatter.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Vince on 05 June, 2015, 09:13:18 am
Yebbut.... Flies.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 05 June, 2015, 09:27:13 am
Welcome Miles, very good to hear that you are on the mend.  Rest well and good luck for the restart.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Canardly on 05 June, 2015, 09:55:35 am
Welcome Miles. GWS.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Butterfly on 05 June, 2015, 10:39:01 am
Welcome to YACF miles, good to see you here. Get well soon and best wishes for the next stage of the challenge.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Andydauddwr on 05 June, 2015, 10:41:37 am
Glad to hear you're through the worst of it Miles. Hope the random luck factor is a bit kinder in round 2.  Will you do anything differently from the start this time?

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: danridesbikes on 05 June, 2015, 10:52:58 am
always nice when the person the topic is about pops in :)

miles, spend the next couple of weeks learning how to use a garmin ;)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 05 June, 2015, 11:23:05 am
G'day mate.  Looking forward to seeing you chew up the tarmac when you restart  :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Auntie Helen on 05 June, 2015, 11:37:14 am
Yep, best of luck with the challenge restart!!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 05 June, 2015, 11:51:31 am
Welcome, and GWS, Miles!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SandyV on 05 June, 2015, 01:20:25 pm
Hi Miles.  Good to see you.  These YACF folk are good people.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mcshroom on 05 June, 2015, 01:46:38 pm
Hi Miles and welcome.

Good to hear you are on the mend. I suppose the enforced restart will give you a chance to iron out any problems you've discovered in the first attempt.

Good luck :D
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wobbly on 05 June, 2015, 03:07:50 pm
These YACF folk are good people.

I'm not.

 :P
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: marcusjb on 05 June, 2015, 03:58:17 pm
Hey Miles.

Glad for no chest drain, as a multiple victim of them, they are not fun.

Heal well and regroup and then tear up the miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 05 June, 2015, 04:09:02 pm
Hello Miles!  Good to see you here.  Hope enforced recuperation is not driving you too crazy, and that you heal swiftly and completely.  I've had a collapsed lung, and it wasn't fun.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mukkinese on 05 June, 2015, 05:03:28 pm
Hi Miles, glad to see you here, and I look forward to following your renewed efforts!

GWS
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Basil on 05 June, 2015, 05:57:49 pm
Gws Miles.  I look forward to following your progress again.



GO STEVE!  (oops.  Did I just say that out loud?).  ;)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SandyV on 05 June, 2015, 09:45:12 pm
These YACF folk are good people.

I'm not.

 :P

Oh yes you are (you can't fool me  :P ) (well you can, quite easily, but not on this one  ;) )
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ashaman42 on 05 June, 2015, 10:17:15 pm
Go Miles!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: miles smith on 09 June, 2015, 06:48:22 am
So just got to get results of last scan/lung test prior to Restart of the HAM'R on the 18th June (earliest start date poss).  Some observations:- 

Ten things NOT to do when you are chasing 15 separate WR's.

1. Don't move into new accommodation the night before you start your WR attempts.

2. If you fail 1. above, at least make sure that the Electricity, Gas and (I'm not joking) Water is connected.

3. If you fail 1. and 2. above, don't delay in taking up the Real Estate Agents offer 'to do all he can'. - immediately go around to his home (It took me over two weeks) early on a Sunday  morning, put your foot in the door when he opens it and make a B line for the Washing Machine.  Then carefully explain to Mrs Real Estate Agent why you are in her laundry room with two weeks worth of smelly bike nicks and leave her to deal with the by now cowering husband.

4. Ensure all the spares and parts you need/ordered have arrived and are on the shelf ready and waiting to be fitted.

5. Don't ever go to REDACTED.

6. Don't get a chest infection requiring you to stay off the bike for two weeks, three weeks prior to your start date, especially from someone who goes by the nickname of 'Phil the Pimp'.

7. Don't use technology that you are not fully confident in.  The loss of all mileage on the GPS based odometer when you recharge its battery, the the loss of all data due to wiping the hail off the super sensitive touch screen and the loss of all data whilst uploading to the competition record keeper.

7. Don't travel too light, especially when you ride on the coldest day in Melbourne in four years and the coldest start to winter since the 50's.

8. Don't ever, ever go to REDACTED.

9. Don't think your having a heart attack, its only a collapsed lung.

10. Don't forget to laugh, because tears will almost certainly freeze on your face.

We restart on June 18th and will at all costs avoid ALL the above. 
   
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: woollypigs on 09 June, 2015, 07:09:28 am
Take care, keep smiling, GWS and Go Miles!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hatler on 09 June, 2015, 07:48:06 am
One thing I imagine you do need to do is maintain a sense of humour. And you clearly appear to have done that. Nice work. Good luck.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: BrokeButt on 09 June, 2015, 09:13:00 am
You're the man Miles. Take the time to sort yourself out properly and you've got this. You're an animal. But there's no point doing miles on the bike if they're not counting! Good luck!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 09 June, 2015, 10:07:24 am
Go Miles! :thumbsup:

(but not to REDACTED) ;)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Canardly on 09 June, 2015, 10:43:21 am
All the best for the coming year.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: plod on 09 June, 2015, 11:41:32 am
good luck :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 09 June, 2015, 11:56:22 am
Erm, I may be the only one in the dark on this, but what's REDACTED?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 09 June, 2015, 12:15:10 pm
Old word referring to documents that have been censored. The bits removed (or coloured over) are redacted.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 09 June, 2015, 01:18:06 pm
Ah, I thought it was a technical term (e.g. a mode on the GPS tracker) rather than the actual word itself  :facepalm:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 June, 2015, 01:25:04 pm
So just got to get results of last scan/lung test prior to Restart of the HAM'R on the 18th June (earliest start date poss).  Some observations:- 

Ten things NOT to do when you are chasing 15 separate WR's.

1. Don't move into new accommodation the night before you start your WR attempts.

2. If you fail 1. above, at least make sure that the Electricity, Gas and (I'm not joking) Water is connected.

3. If you fail 1. and 2. above, don't delay in taking up the Real Estate Agents offer 'to do all he can'. - immediately go around to his home (It took me over two weeks) early on a Sunday  morning, put your foot in the door when he opens it and make a B line for the Washing Machine.  Then carefully explain to Mrs Real Estate Agent why you are in her laundry room with two weeks worth of smelly bike nicks and leave her to deal with the by now cowering husband.

This ^^^^ has caused Brown Drink to come out of my nose at high speed :thumbsup:  GWS.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Vince on 09 June, 2015, 02:00:20 pm
Erm, I may be the only one in the dark on this, but what's REDACTED?
Its a small town in Virginia on the road between Washington and Quantico.
(or it should be)

Go for it Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 09 June, 2015, 02:08:11 pm
Given that USAnia has communities named Greenbackville, Accident, Duck, Onancock, Intercourse and Truth Or Consequences it would not be a surprise.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: HTFB on 09 June, 2015, 03:27:32 pm
3. If you fail 1. and 2. above, don't delay in taking up the Real Estate Agents offer 'to do all he can'. - immediately go around to his home (It took me over two weeks) early on a Sunday  morning, put your foot in the door when he opens it and make a B line for the Washing Machine.  Then carefully explain to Mrs Real Estate Agent why you are in her laundry room with two weeks worth of smelly bike nicks and leave her to deal with the by now cowering husband.
;D This alone deserves a medal.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Frank9755 on 10 June, 2015, 09:56:49 am
Old word referring to documents that have been censored. The bits removed (or coloured over) are redacted.

I know what redacted means but still don't understand the meaning in this context...
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 June, 2015, 10:50:08 am
Old word referring to documents that have been censored. The bits removed (or coloured over) are redacted.

I know what redacted means but still don't understand the meaning in this context...
It means Miles didn't what to state the location or names as that would be libel (and aggressive rather than funny). Think of the bleeps in a comedy program.
I like Mile's [REDACTED] sense of humour, he seems a good humoured [REDACTED].
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Frank9755 on 10 June, 2015, 01:36:00 pm
Thanks - I get it now!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: miles smith on 11 June, 2015, 04:26:57 am
Docs gave me the all clear this AM to Restart on the 18th, six (6) days to go to restart date - earliest date possible under UMCA rules.

This news was much appreciated by the team (see below) as I've not been the best to be around for the past couple of weeks.

Team Audax Australia:

Peter 'Affirmative Action (he rides a Recumbent but we don't like to talk about it) Man' Mathews - former National El Presidente, Audax Australia & Chief WR data checking & transfer to UMCA.

Barry 'Chatham House Rules' Moore - Chief Auditor of all WR data.

Phil 'The Pimp' Bellette - Sponsorship & Chef de Mission, former Mr Audax Alpine Classic, currently residing in Northern Hemisphere (does not ride a moped).

Andy 'Oliver - Please Sir Can I Have' Moore - Chief Sprocket Man & Bike Builder.

Sally Rodgers 'Oh Yes She Does' - Social Media & Gatekeeper.

Miles Smith - Dumb Piece of Meat that pushes Pedals.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: tonyh on 11 June, 2015, 05:13:47 am
 :thumbsup:  Ongoing good wishes Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 11 June, 2015, 07:06:56 am
Excellent news, good luck Miles  :thumbsup:

Quote from: miles smith
currently residing in Northern Hemisphere (does not ride a moped)"
;D
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 11 June, 2015, 10:46:10 am
Pleased to hear it Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 11 June, 2015, 11:24:37 am
Splendid news - good luck for the restart, and hi to your team!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Canardly on 11 June, 2015, 09:52:40 pm
Nice one.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Basil on 12 June, 2015, 07:17:53 am
Best wishes.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 12 June, 2015, 08:43:56 am
Miles Smith - Dumb Piece of Meat that pushes Pedals.
Be careful. Go around describing yourself like that and you'll end up on a barbie.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 14 June, 2015, 09:15:05 pm
Miles Smith - Dumb Piece of Meat that pushes Pedals.
Be careful. Go around describing yourself like that and you'll end up on a barbie.

I think he's distancing himself from this

(http://mcgalliard.org/miles.jpg)

Please team miles, get it together.  Good luck on Thursday and for the following 364 days (that's the right number, despite the leap year?).
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: miles smith on 15 June, 2015, 12:25:57 am
Hi jefmcg.

You are correct we HAM'R guys don't get the extra day in a leap year.

Yesterday were testing the Garmin 510 and 500 data collection and upload was working OK.  Given the info in your post you can see the test results.

Several probs for this, the first being we uploaded only via GSM phone network previously and this time we gave it a go via WIFI network (Domino's Pizza Port Melbourne).

No truth in the rummer, that I'm starting right now, that I stuffed up the upload so I could go a second Large deep pan pizza.   

As we will not be running a concurrent challenge we just want to ensure that all previously encountered 'issues' are sorted, by using the upload to the aborted challenge info reprository.  See 'things not to do' post made earlier. 
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: rabbit on 15 June, 2015, 12:31:45 pm
Blimy - just catching up and bluddy hell!  You were going great guns Miles, but glad to hear you are restarting and wishing you the best of luck.  18th is nearly here already  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Justin(e) on 15 June, 2015, 01:21:37 pm
Good luck Miles
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Marmitegeoff on 15 June, 2015, 01:30:15 pm
Good Luck with the restart Miles.   How about getting an E-trex as well as the other GPS units as they are very basic but work well, with a long battery life.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 15 June, 2015, 01:32:59 pm
Several probs for this, the first being we uploaded only via GSM phone network previously and this time we gave it a go via WIFI network (Domino's Pizza Port Melbourne).

No truth in the rummer, that I'm starting right now, that I stuffed up the upload so I could go a second Large deep pan pizza.   

Proof, if it was needed, that you aren't a Melbourne native.  It's not really pizza, and you should never eat Dominos pizza in Melbourne except in a genuine emergency.  It would be like drinking Starbucks ... please tell me you don't do that! 

(good luck)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: miles smith on 16 June, 2015, 04:49:24 am
Hi Marmite Man, already have to depress buttons 23 times prior to riding what with lights (5), Spot Trackers (2), Garmin's (2), Cat Eye odometer (1) and Camera.  UMCA set up for Garmin uploads so will stick with what we know and following the KISS (as in 'keep it simple, stupid') principal.

About 30 hrs to go before we restart at which point in time I will nolonger be regularly logging on.  Weather predicted to be rain followed by more rain, so it seems that jefmcg maybe incorrect that I'm possibly not based out of Melbourne.   As for Domino's maaaate love those deep pan's.

Kindest Regards to you all.  Miles.

   
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Aunt Maud on 16 June, 2015, 06:35:14 am
Hope it goes well Miles, look after yourself on the road.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 16 June, 2015, 06:57:04 am
Rest well Miles, we'll be watching.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Oakhambike on 17 June, 2015, 06:54:51 pm
Good luck Miles - you are nuts
Actually all three of you are nuts

Stay safe!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 23 June, 2015, 11:46:44 pm
Daily Miles miles since the reboot:

184, 131, 131, 131, 141, 101.

Good to see a more regular sleep pattern, but rides are going to have to get longer reasonably soon if he's to go for Tommy's record.

Also, if there's any chance of team Miles consolidating the GPX uploads to Strava so we don't get 8 or 9 separate tracks per day, that would be splendid for us number crunchers.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Canardly on 24 June, 2015, 10:57:28 am
Good luck with it Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: tomh on 24 June, 2015, 12:41:41 pm
Something odd going on with the strava upload for Miles.  Looking at the 101 miles uploaded on the 23rd there are three tracks of approx 30 miles each, all start in melbourne and end half way down the bay:

https://www.strava.com/activities/331024967 (https://www.strava.com/activities/331024967)
https://www.strava.com/activities/331113533 (https://www.strava.com/activities/331113533)
https://www.strava.com/activities/331184108 (https://www.strava.com/activities/331184108)

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 24 June, 2015, 01:28:09 pm
Looks like he was getting the train back to take advantage of the wind, the times are:
10:03 to 11:48 - 47kms 331024967
14:41 to 16:43 - 54kms 331113533
18:06 to 20:08 - 51kms 331184108

All three end at a small train station, the last one starts from the big station in the city.  It looks like the second starts from the bike shop so he probably forgot to switch on for the short station -> shop ride.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 24 June, 2015, 02:51:00 pm
You seemed to have analysed it correctly.  Frankston Station is actually a reasonable sized suburban station, the farthest one down the peninsula - you wouldn't rely on country services in Australia.  The second ride he gets off at Richmond Station (which is right over his bike shop).  Richmond is a bit like Clapham Junction or Willesden Junction.  Third ride he goes in two more stops into the city.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: tomh on 24 June, 2015, 05:35:41 pm
That makes much more sense now - Thanks
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 05 July, 2015, 07:45:55 am
Don't know if Team Miles are still reading this thread...

In the last three days, 16 uploads to Strava for 666 km of riding (and that excludes the uploads with 0km). Any chance of consolidating those short 4km trips across Melbourne in future uploads?

In other news I notice that after 17 days, Miles has pretty much matched Tommy's first 17. Is the plan to follow his schedule through the year?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: danridesbikes on 13 July, 2015, 06:59:48 pm
is this already dead in the water?

Quote
Miles heads east from Melbourne for 108 miles. He is now as far behind Tommy's WR pace as Steve was following his crash.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 13 July, 2015, 09:48:14 pm
He seems to be having "fun" with his Garmin 510 according to FB. They aren't THAT hard to use...

Quote
Found best way to deal with Garmin is to treat it as you would a petulant child. Last night I could not switch the 510 off, so I ignored it and hey presto it does what you want, but only when you are not looking. Can't wait to smash it's tiny brains out with a real hammer (pun' tastic fun) when I finish the HAM'R.

Quote
We did a big clean out of the Garmin's (500 and 510) yesterday and response times to button pushing has improved markedly. I was only seeing an increase in the calories figs and no one knows why cadence x2 is up on the screen and no one knew a distance to destination feature was even an option.

RTFM?

The weather has been shocking for him recently which I think is limiting his mileage. And it sounds like he has to wait 6 hours for a train at one end or other of his usual route which is a waste of time. Still finding it hard to take his challenge seriously as it seems so amateurish IMHO.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 14 July, 2015, 07:33:27 am
is this already dead in the water?
Not remotely, see the foot of Jo's OYTT page (http://gicentre.org/oytt/).  Miles' target miles per day has only risen to 209.3.  Tommy's was 216.3 at this point and Steve refuses to give in with 251.5 required every day.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Climberruss on 14 July, 2015, 08:23:45 am
From what I can gather, Miles has some pretty attrocious weather to contend with atm. I suspect his milages will improve considerably when his weather improves.
Whilst looking a bit "hit and miss" atm, I think his attempt is very much alive.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: L CC on 14 July, 2015, 10:55:21 am
The weather has been shocking for him recently which I think is limiting his mileage. And it sounds like he has to wait 6 hours for a train at one end or other of his usual route which is a waste of time. Still finding it hard to take his challenge seriously as it seems so amateurish IMHO.
I know what you mean, but I disagree. I don't think he's any more amateurish than either of the others, tbh. The train waiting thing is fine as he's not wasting that time, he's sleeping. I like him, and I hope he does well.

(Though I hope Steve does a bit more  :D)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 14 July, 2015, 01:30:28 pm
The weather has been shocking for him recently which I think is limiting his mileage. And it sounds like he has to wait 6 hours for a train at one end or other of his usual route which is a waste of time. Still finding it hard to take his challenge seriously as it seems so amateurish IMHO.
I know what you mean, but I disagree. I don't think he's any more amateurish than either of the others, tbh. The train waiting thing is fine as he's not wasting that time, he's sleeping. I like him, and I hope he does well.

(Though I hope Steve does a bit more  :D)

The technical issues his team continue to struggle with is frustrating. His FB post seemed to suggest the 6hr wait for the train was eating into his potential cycling time.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Mr Larrington on 14 July, 2015, 06:33:21 pm
Surely there's nothing to stop him riding small loops in those six hours ???
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 15 July, 2015, 09:54:51 am
Surely there's nothing to stop him riding small loops in those six hours ???

This is the full FB post where 6hrs is mentioned. It's a bit difficult to follow but it seems he's talking about changing his regular route so he doesn't have a 6hr wait...

Quote
Day 25 "Thanks for inquires re the Bung Lung. First time anyone has said "inflation is good".
Everything going to plan. Lost 2 hrs sleep due to loosening off of the cranks. Life is better if you don't have to push overtight bearings, overnight.
Rain and cold weather (temps struggle to reach double figures) set to continue until Sunday. No one is saying which Sunday. Had two full roast chickens for lunch. Durano tyres continue to make life easier.
I called on to Mallard's in Sale to buy some Trek Bicycle cycling gear. Best Trek dealer I know of, really knowledgeable staff re Trek and bikes generally and all top blokes.
Will be leaving melb at 5.30 ish for second run of the day to Bairnsdale. This route should give me about 440 to 500 kms per day. Why the variance? two factors 1. Do I make the last 60 km's or chicken (sorry but can still taste them) out at Sale so I don't have a six hour wait, and 2. UMCA rules say I have to upload all ride info at 12 midnight so a ride maybe/will be split over two days. The last point evens put the data for the stats nuts and makes for day 356 cut off unarguable.
Found best way to deal with Garmin is to treat it as you would a petulant child. Last night I could not switch the 510 off, so I ignored it and hey presto it does what you want, but only when you are not looking. Can't wait to smash it's tiny brains out with a real hammer (pun' tastic fun) when I finish the HAM'R."
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 28 July, 2015, 07:20:07 am
From a few days ago:
Quote from: Miles Smith on faceache
15 mins into the day I get hit by a right turning car (think left if you are reading this in Europe or the USA). Old guy, doesn't look where he's going or indicate, just quick glance to his left. When he gets out its clear that hes 80+ and from the numerous marks all over the car and the magnifying lenses in his glasses it wouldn't really have mattered if he had looked - looking and seeing being similar but not the same. The rear wheel, jocky wheels and rear gear changing mechanism take the hit. I lose a couple of gears in the high range as selecting them means the chain jumps up and over (and off) the rear big cogs, but am able to ride on. I don't want to bend the jockey wheels back as I'm bound to break the weak link (rear hanger) which has already been ' stress tested'. I carry a spare hanger but would prefer to avoid the mess and returning that a swap would mean by the side of the road, plus while I can move forwards, that's what I do. Mileage's is everything.

This is the third hit in the current challenge, so hopefully the saying that everything comes in three's is true.
My emphasis.  Blimey, he's only 5 weeks in.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Gabrielle260 on 01 August, 2015, 12:03:54 am
Miles looks to be on his way out to Gippsland but here in Melbourne it is a day to stay in bed. Horrible weather- extremely strong and unpredictable gusts of wind, steady rain interrupted by stronger downpours - yuk!
The breakfast news is saying we have had the coldest July in over 20 years and I believe them... Not a good time to be riding a bike. Two of us in my Global Corporate Challenge team have had 3 falls in 2 weeks due to weather, traffic and equipment failure so it's no surprise to hear Miles' travails.
Kudos to him to be out riding in this!

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 01 August, 2015, 12:57:26 pm
The weather has been shocking for him recently which I think is limiting his mileage. And it sounds like he has to wait 6 hours for a train at one end or other of his usual route which is a waste of time. Still finding it hard to take his challenge seriously as it seems so amateurish IMHO.

See, this is why I am skeptical (in fact, disbelieving) that this record is somehow harder in England.  You can't compare transport infrastructure in Europe to Australia (or I guess the USA, though Kurt has plans that don't require it.)

This was presumably about this ride (https://www.strava.com/activities/344951028).  The trains on that line run (http://www.vline.com.au/pdf/timetables/bairnsdale.pdf) 3 times a day.  6 am, midday and 6pm.  So if you miss a train by 5 minutes, you have a 6 (or 12!) hour wait.   Compare that to England, where you can just head to the nearest reasonably sized town and know there will be a station there, and a train to a nearby city shortly.

His previous usual route (https://www.strava.com/activities/289504920), has a metropolitan train service (trains every 10-20 minutes) at less than the halfway point, then only buses the rest of the way.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 01 August, 2015, 04:08:01 pm
That may be true, but Steve hasn't used anything but his own leg-power to get him around his various rides. I very much doubt the the weather in Melbourne is significantly worse than it is in an English winter. Forget trains, ride the bike.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 01 August, 2015, 05:30:14 pm
Quote
nearest reasonably sized town and know there will be a station there

That might have been true in the late 50s and early 60s :)

Sounds like this July in Melbourne is similar to an average November in the UK! A spell of wintry weather in the UK would seriously hamper any cycling. Although pretty rare in the south of England a few year's back we had deep snow right across the country in mid-December.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jefmcg on 01 August, 2015, 06:13:21 pm
Melbourne's weather is not worse than London.  In fact it's often better on a mid winter day in Melbourne than it is on the same (mid summer) day in London.

This year has been a relatively bad one,  which is bad luck, but in 30+ years I never saw snow on the ground in Melbourne (did once see it fall past the 19 floor office I was in, but it melted before it hit the ground).  Miles, being English, will be finding it balmy.

Quote
nearest reasonably sized town and know there will be a station there

That might have been true in the late 50s and early 60s :)

Based on my 21 century experience, mostly bailing out of rides that have gone pear shaped.  The only time I've been stranded was when I arrived at Stevenage station after the last train to London - but the clever train staff put me a train to Peterborough, and then I got off an boarded the first train back to London via Stevenage.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: andrew_s on 17 August, 2015, 01:01:21 am
Miles seems to have solved the problem of time travel, which must make his task much easier   :thumbsup:

In Australia, in Moe, 75 miles east of Melbourne:
#6673 on 05:41:05 PM (GMT) 08/16/15 (5 hours, 59 minutes ago) 2.41 mi traveled at 11.7 mph

In Europe, at the PBP start in Guyancourt:
Point #1 received at: 05:30:24 PM (GMT) 08/16/15 (6 hours, 14 minutes ago) 0.0 ft traveled at 2.2 mph
and at the control in Mortagne:
#1039 on 11:37:08 PM (GMT) 08/16/15 (7 minutes ago) 14.8 ft traveled at 0.0 mph

(from the trackleaders trackers, just now)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mattc on 17 August, 2015, 11:08:27 pm
the tracker shows him going well - almost at Brest. But i cant find him on the PBP site.

Anyone got a frame number  or URL for him?

EDIT: http://trackleaders.com/oneyeartimetrial15i.php?name=Miles_Smith_2 shows a rider doing reps south of Melbourne, Australia, then flying to Paris, then riding to Brest.

That's all I know!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SandyV on 18 August, 2015, 12:13:56 am
Miles isn't riding PBP.  Perhaps it's referring to Michael Smith?

Information on the Australian riders can be found at Audax.org.au or for those who wish to look on Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/groups/AudaxAustralia/permalink/859725664105708/ (https://www.facebook.com/groups/AudaxAustralia/permalink/859725664105708/)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: andrew_s on 18 August, 2015, 02:22:06 pm
Miles_Smith_1 did the ride from Portsea into Melbourne this morning, so there are definitely two of him, and it's not a time zone problem. Most strange. Perhaps Miles lent a spare tracker to a friend?

At Portsea:
Miles_Smith_1
Point #10 received at: 04:45:29 AM (GMT) 08/18/15
 (8 hours, 19 minutes ago) (229:04:45 since start)
 1.72 mi traveled at 10.4 mph

In Melbourne:
Miles_Smith_1
Point #33 received at: 08:54:09 AM (GMT) 08/18/15
 (4 hours, 10 minutes ago) (229:08:54 since start)
 2.47 mi traveled at 14.8 mph

At Brest:  (about 4 km after the control, going by Steve's track)
Miles_Smith_2
Point #1 received at: 06:46:00 AM (GMT) 08/18/15
 (6 hours, 19 minutes ago) (229:06:46 since start)
 0.0 ft traveled at 0.4 mph

At the Carhaix control on the return:
Miles_Smith_2
Point #28 received at: 12:25:28 PM (GMT) 08/18/15
 (39 minutes ago) (229:12:25 since start)
 209.1 ft traveled at 0.2 mph

Plus a full set of intermediate points in both cases.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 21 August, 2015, 04:54:31 pm
A properly bolx'd bottom bracket looks like the reason there were no significant miles recorded yesterday:
https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU

That chain ring is still every bit as :o as it was the first time I saw it.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: danridesbikes on 21 August, 2015, 06:59:55 pm
simply cannot afford that, no loaner bike, no nothing?

prep is the key, kurt has hoardes of bikes, steve has 3 identical in rotation
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 23 August, 2015, 08:34:55 am
Not quite sure what happened with his bottom bracket but many extra tracks have now appeared on Strava for the last three days. Combined with a liberal sprinkling of 0km Strava tracks, retrospective additions to previous days' rides make monitoring (and visualizing) progress unnecessarily complicated.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 29 August, 2015, 09:55:42 pm
No movement from Miles in the last couple of days and, as far as I can tell, radio silence on social media. Does anyone know what's up? Is he OK?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 31 August, 2015, 10:51:42 am
Nothing on Facebook since 24th August. Nothing on the Spot tracker or Strava since 27th August. Twitter's not been used since July. Worrying?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 01 September, 2015, 06:24:31 am
After a gap of four days without riding, it looks like Miles is back. He's posted a couple of rides for today (1st Sept factoring in time zones). But he is now over 5000 miles down on Tommy's pace, so it's going to be a bit of an uphill struggle to make up for lost time. GoMiles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 03 September, 2015, 10:20:14 am
Good to see him riding again but how is he ever going to beat the record when he regularly rides <150 miles/day? Surely he's leaving himself far too much to do later in the year?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 03 September, 2015, 11:54:08 am
Good to see him riding again but how is he ever going to beat the record when he regularly rides <150 miles/day? Surely he's leaving himself far too much to do later in the year?
Miles is not really a contender any longer.  A shame because, unlike IronOx, he's not a joke entrant and he's obviously put himself through the mill to be making his attempt(s).
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 03 September, 2015, 04:45:40 pm
Not sure it's over for him yet.  He appears to be a tough SOB and it may be he can knock out 250 miles a day in the summer more regularly that Kurt, Steve or Tommy managed/manage.  An outside shot, but still in the realms of the possible.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 08 September, 2015, 04:41:02 pm
He's started posting on Facebook again. There's been a few updates since yesterday. Here's the latest. Not sure which WR pace he's riding to but he's going to have to massively up his miles at some point (pretty much double his daily average from what he's been doing so far I believe).

Quote
"Stop me if you've heard this before...Just about to set off to Portsea, and yes its 'suddenly' p(ers)issssssssssssstently raining, in my current location.
Quick look at the radar and it should pass within the hour......
Planning to ride overnight........
Don't want to get wet to the bone and freeze for next several hours.......
I'll just sit here for an hour or so ZZZzzzzz......
No, got to keep moving or will go night, night. Three major benefits of doing this:
1. You can eat anything, at any time and in any volume,
2. You can sleep at any time and any place,
3. You can...... No. That's about it.
I just did a back of a back of a beer mat calculation and since big team meeting (even taking into account my Shepperton Macca's stuff up), we are back on WR pace.
Spring, "I'm loving it".
Ronald rocks.
Rode with the Saturday Slackers last Saturday. Bit drizzly and generally moist weather.
Vince the Cabby flagged me down, just outside Frankston. What a man, he had two sausage sanger's, with not only sauce but onions as well. Only problem was I was riding with Arnie Birrell who wolfed one. We will have to get Vince on his bike soon, of course he left his meter running whilst we were stuffing around.
Met Dorothy's elder brother!"
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 09 September, 2015, 07:34:07 am
The comment about being back on the WR line suggests he might not be thinking far enough ahead.  He does appreciate that Godwin's summer miles were paced and it will be very very very difficult to match that under HAMR rules?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 09 September, 2015, 07:36:19 am
I suspect Miles hasn't looked ahead at all and is just matching Tommy's week to week progress. He isn't a serious contender now, in my eyes.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 09 September, 2015, 08:25:53 am
His daily target is already up to 226.5.  He's done that in a day many times and it's in the region Kurt does.  OTOH he needs a bit more to allow for illness & mechanicals and yet more to allow for low mileages next winter....  Oh and more again because it looks strongly like Kurt is moving the goalposts.

He isn't a serious contender now, in my eyes.
Hard to disagree :(
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 09 September, 2015, 07:29:44 pm
The comment about being back on the WR line suggests he might not be thinking far enough ahead.  He does appreciate that Godwin's summer miles were paced and it will be very very very difficult to match that under HAMR rules?

Which WR line is he aiming for because he's currently a couple of thousand miles behind Tommy's?

http://gicentre.org/oytt/

And then he does another <150 miles day. Doesn't make any sense at all to me.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 09 September, 2015, 09:27:00 pm
The mind, it is boggling  ???
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 21 September, 2015, 07:47:46 am
Genuine question.  Is Miles riding to see how far he can ride in a year, but no longer with an eye on the HAMR?

Jo's latest summary suggests he is 7200miles behind WR pace, which is a lot to make up in the time available.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 21 September, 2015, 10:14:56 am
His Facebook posts (https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU?fref=ts) seem to suggest he's still aiming for HAMR but I don't understand his strategy or what record he thinks he's aiming for as he's nowhere near what he should be doing. Not sure what he's doing to his bike either, broken spokes every few days and he needs to replace the chain every four days. He isn't doing enough miles to warrant that surely? Something to do with that ridiculous chain ring he uses?

Can't see him ever making up the deficit even if the weather does improve for him.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 07 October, 2015, 11:57:33 am
Too many questions about Miles' attempt.  My gut feeling is that he was underprepared and is not well supported.  We know he is capable of putting in big miles day after day, but the model isn't working too well.

I wouldn't be surprised if he came back in a couple of years to have another go.  There's vanishingly little chance of his beating Kurt, or even Tommy, now.  But there is no doubting he's a strong rider when it all comes together.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 07 October, 2015, 02:13:01 pm
Too many questions about Miles' attempt.  My gut feeling is that he was underprepared and is not well supported.  We know he is capable of putting in big miles day after day, but the model isn't working too well.

I wouldn't be surprised if he came back in a couple of years to have another go.  There's vanishingly little chance of his beating Kurt, or even Tommy, now.  But there is no doubting he's a strong rider when it all comes together.

But he thinks he's challenging for the record which is what I don't get. Is he getting bad advice? Miscalculated what he needs to do? Does he think it's 75,000km to beat the record and not 75,000 miles?! His mileage is about right to beat 75,000km in 365 days (average of 127 miles/day) as he's averaged 133 miles/day so far.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 07 October, 2015, 06:46:45 pm
Too many questions about Miles' attempt.  My gut feeling is that he was underprepared and is not well supported.  We know he is capable of putting in big miles day after day, but the model isn't working too well.

I wouldn't be surprised if he came back in a couple of years to have another go.  There's vanishingly little chance of his beating Kurt, or even Tommy, now.  But there is no doubting he's a strong rider when it all comes together.

I agree.

He may be behind the pace, but respect due for a rider who is cycling 200k+ every day.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 07 October, 2015, 07:30:15 pm
Too many questions about Miles' attempt.  My gut feeling is that he was underprepared and is not well supported.  We know he is capable of putting in big miles day after day, but the model isn't working too well.

I wouldn't be surprised if he came back in a couple of years to have another go.  There's vanishingly little chance of his beating Kurt, or even Tommy, now.  But there is no doubting he's a strong rider when it all comes together.

But he thinks he's challenging for the record which is what I don't get. Is he getting bad advice? Miscalculated what he needs to do? Does he think it's 75,000km to beat the record and not 75,000 miles?! His mileage is about right to beat 75,000km in 365 days (average of 127 miles/day) as he's averaged 133 miles/day so far.

I’d hate to be the person that told him, the day he thought he’d beaten the record by 1km, that he was short by around 25,000km.

It can’t be that, can it? Surely not.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: wajcgac on 07 October, 2015, 08:55:09 pm
He should know what the correct required distance is as it's part of the main heading on his own Facebook page.
 
and is, 1 MAN 365 DAYS 120,805 KMS

https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU (https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Deano on 07 October, 2015, 08:58:54 pm
He could beat the Australian record (just over 100,000 kms by Ossie Nicholson).
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: simonp on 07 October, 2015, 09:46:40 pm
An alternative that occurred to me is that he’s doing the required distances but it’s not all on Strava, giving the problems he’s been having. I’ve not looked at the official leaderboard.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 October, 2015, 12:06:46 am
Just checked the official board. According to that, Miles is, well, Miles off pace.

Annoyingly, the official board doesn't show Steve's restart.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: wajcgac on 08 October, 2015, 06:55:06 pm
The HAM'R site is a little confusing in the fact that the only 'officially verified' stats are linked to on this page.

http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/ (http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/)

and select the current xlsx file to download

This one does include Steve's restart.

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 15 October, 2015, 06:13:18 pm
According to FB Miles was knocked off his bike yesterday which trashed yet another rear wheel. He was basically unhurt, a few bruises as far as I can tell. He seems to spend a lot of time riding down the hard shoulder of freeways according to what he says on there. I stopped following him on Strava as I got fed up of dozens of 0km rides on my timeline :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 15 October, 2015, 08:31:28 pm
That's not good. I hope he's ok. That said, has anyone got to the bottom of what his target really is for this effort? He's patently not aiming at Tommy's total, so what is the point of his pain and suffering at the hand of the pitiless Oz motorists?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 16 October, 2015, 07:56:48 am
According to FB Miles was knocked off his bike yesterday which trashed yet another rear wheel. He was basically unhurt, a few bruises as far as I can tell. He seems to spend a lot of time riding down the hard shoulder of freeways according to what he says on there. I stopped following him on Strava as I got fed up of dozens of 0km rides on my timeline :)

Where is his FB page? Can't find it...
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Sio2111 on 16 October, 2015, 10:03:06 am
https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU?fref=ts (https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU?fref=ts)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: DaveE128 on 16 October, 2015, 03:38:56 pm
That's not good. I hope he's ok. That said, has anyone got to the bottom of what his target really is for this effort? He's patently not aiming at Tommy's total, so what is the point of his pain and suffering at the hand of the pitiless Oz motorists?

Glad to hear he's basically ok.

Yeah, I've been wondering the same for a long time. To begin with, I figured that he was just not going for Godwin's record, just the UMCA one, and was having a go in case the other two didn't make it through the year. However, Tarzan clearly has enough miles in the bank to make it impossible for Miles to catch him now even if he stopped today, so I guess that isn't the current plan.

Having said that, there are several things about Miles' attempt that puzzle me, including the chain ring.

Maybe he just enjoys riding and wants to see how far he can go? Maybe it is the Oz record?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 16 October, 2015, 03:55:58 pm
That's not good. I hope he's ok. That said, has anyone got to the bottom of what his target really is for this effort? He's patently not aiming at Tommy's total, so what is the point of his pain and suffering at the hand of the pitiless Oz motorists?

Glad to hear he's basically ok.

Yeah, I've been wondering the same for a long time. To begin with, I figured that he was just not going for Godwin's record, just the UMCA one, and was having a go in case the other two didn't make it through the year. However, Tarzan clearly has enough miles in the bank to make it impossible for Miles to catch him now even if he stopped today, so I guess that isn't the current plan.

Having said that, there are several things about Miles' attempt that puzzle me, including the chain ring.

Maybe he just enjoys riding and wants to see how far he can go? Maybe it is the Oz record?
I think that as far as most australians are concerned, the only record that counts is Ossie Nicholson's at 62,657 miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: SoreTween on 17 October, 2015, 10:30:33 am
From Miles' Facebook on the 11th:

Quote
Great news, we have a new HAM'R competitor joining in a couple of months time.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: LittleWheelsandBig on 17 October, 2015, 10:36:45 am
My understanding is that Miles has recently had to cope with Victoria's worst weather in 3 decades. I doubt that any Aussie cyclist would ignore Tommy's record and only aim at Ossie's.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: bryn on 17 October, 2015, 02:14:00 pm
Plenty of 300km+ days on the raw strava data page on gomiles.com.au and latest fb page says he was heading for 400-450km on that day.

Sounds serious to me.  ISTR we didn't expect Tarzan to be serious back in January.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 17 October, 2015, 03:12:54 pm
Not sure who the "we" refers to in your description, but there have been plenty here who have always regarded Kurt as a serious contender for the record.

I think most here were also open minded about Miles's attempt at the start, but it seems clear to me at least that he has no chance of taking the record now. His attempt is admirable, and the conditions unexpectedly harsh, but he is further behind pace than Steve was after his injury and month or two of slow recovery. He is twice as far behind pace (c. 8,500 miles) as Tommy was at his furthest drift from the WR. And that is with the benefit of restart that skipped a few weeks of non-riding. Tommy managed some exceptionally long days over several months to recover from a 4,300 mile deficit. Miles has so far not ridden ~any~ consecutive days of more than 206 miles on his reboot. On his original attempt his longest string of >206 mile days was two, which he managed on four occasions. In contrast, with only a small deficit, Kurt has managed numerous strings of 2-3 weeks of riding where every day was >206 miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 17 October, 2015, 04:09:05 pm
The most bizarre thing is he keeps saying things like 'back on it' or 'covered my target distance'. I just wish we knew what exactly his target is or what he thinks it is. I see that this question has been asked directly on FB but not been answered. It's frustrating not to know as what he's doing is admirable but doomed to failure and it makes me wonder why bother?! There's other ways to enjoy cycling your bike?!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 18 October, 2015, 07:56:37 am
Plenty of 300km+ days on the raw strava data page on gomiles.com.au and latest fb page says he was heading for 400-450km on that day.

Sounds serious to me.  ISTR we didn't expect Tarzan to be serious back in January.

Nope. He's way behind the pace needed to make 120,000km (75,000 miles) in the year, and he needs to be doing something like 360km1 every day now. He knows what the record is - it's stated on the top of his FB page. He's putting in some serious miles by anyone else's standard (except Kurt, Steve and Tommy!), but he's an also-ran as far as the HAMR is concerned, and I can't take him seriously in that context.

1. Edit: 387km per day, if I read Jo's graphs right (122 days completed on attempt 2, 16500 miles done, leaving ~58500 miles to do in 243 days = 240mpd = 387kmpd. Ain't gonna happen.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 19 October, 2015, 10:31:25 am
I see the question got answered on FB...

Quote
"To answer Tim Corbett's question. I know what the minimum is I need to do each day. I keep only two running totals and that is the + or - figure with regard to the average daily and the target figures. Put another way how much over or under the current record set by Tommy and how much over or under the target I've set myself I am.

Like any large project you just got to slice and dice it into 'achievable and digestible' chunks. You don't get up and think 'OK 120,800 km's less the massive 400 I did yesterday wow that's only 120,400 km's to go'."

After a few days of WR pace plus he then does this "Miles keeps it shorter on a couple of bay trips with a total of 93 miles.". Which puts him even further behind.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 19 October, 2015, 11:21:06 am
I've asked the question on his FB page of how he intends to get his average up from 217km a day to the currently needed 387km a day. At the moment, it seems to me almost as though he hasn't really grasped how far behind he is, and that completely undimmed the credibility of this attempt. Perhaps there's a plan.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 19 October, 2015, 11:47:39 am
I think he has fallen victim to 'bogey score' syndrome in a big way.

This is a well-known issue in sport. Say you are an amateur 10 000m runner. Your PB is 59m, you commonly run 65. At 5 000m you are on 28m, well ahead of PB pace. You congratulate yourself, and slacken off focus - finish the race in 61m. It's a psychological problem, focussing on recent good achievement rather than on the remaining work.

Miles does some good rides, ahead of WR pace. Feels good about it - subsequent days are well down. Overall average ends up being too low. He loses sight of this, because he thinks about the good rides and forgets the poor ones.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 19 October, 2015, 12:42:35 pm
Yes, that makes sense. I definitely don't think he's looking at the whole task!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 20 October, 2015, 10:48:44 am
To be so massively deluded about how far off the pace he is suggests that Miles is being a bit of a space cadet.  If he's not serious about getting the record - merely about clocking up as many miles as he can - that's fine, but he does himself a disservice by showing the world that he's actually expecting to be challenging for a record which is already well out of his grasp.  :-\
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 20 October, 2015, 11:13:30 am
Perhaps a little harsh Legs.

I agree Miles is unlikely to take the record, but I wouldn't go so far as to say he is "massively deluded" or that he is doing himself a disservice. It was less than a year ago that Steve, one of the UK's most experienced ultra-long distance cyclists, had an upper schedule that would see him gain 12,000 miles over the WR pace in 8 months (see the orange 'wave' on my OYTT chart). If Miles were able to follow that, he'd take the record.

We are realising, thanks to the experience of all three riders, that this kind of performance is much less likely than anticipated, but because these huge annual distances are so rare, there's a lot of uncertainty about how performance develops over a year.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 20 October, 2015, 12:37:12 pm
Perhaps a little harsh Legs.
Maybe, but there's a lot of head-in-sand burying going on, to the extent of denying that there's a problem.  "Slicing and dicing" this "large project" into "digestible chunks" would entail either (i) doing about 206 miles per day, every day, or (ii) following a schedule which keeps you within catching-up-distance of the GODWIN LINE.  Miles, in spite of his protestations, is not doing either of these.

I agree Miles is unlikely to take the record, but I wouldn't go so far as to say he is "massively deluded" or that he is doing himself a disservice. It was less than a year ago that Steve, one of the UK's most experienced ultra-long distance cyclists, had an upper schedule that would see him gain 12,000 miles over the WR pace in 8 months (see the orange 'wave' on my OYTT chart). If Miles were able to follow that, he'd take the record.
...and if Miles hasn't learnt from the intell gathered by Steve and Kurt about how unsustainable it is to actually enact that wavey profile of seasonally-bolstered riding, then he's not to be taken as a serious contender.  Steve and Kurt have shown that back-to-back riding of ~215-220mpd is sustainable when all is going well, but that you have to make allowances for days (and sometimes weeks) when things don't go well.  Whenever Steve or Kurt have pressed on beyond this amount for any more than a couple of days, their bodies have brought them back down to equilibrium.  OT musing: How Godwin did his summer mileages, goodness only knows...  Had he taken a more aggressive approach to the winter riding - in keeping with the stamina he showed he had in the summer (and a less harsh winter to do it in), Godwin could well have put this record beyond the reach of all three of these contenders.

We are realising, thanks to the experience of all three riders, that this kind of performance is much less likely than anticipated, but because these huge annual distances are so rare, there's a lot of uncertainty about how performance develops over a year.
The only certainties are  in the rides that they have already logged, the distances to go, and the amounts of time to do it.  It is a reflection of their planning and preparation that Kurt is looking likely to break the Godwin record (touch wood), Steve is looking to be there or thereabouts (touch wood - he's got to have a strong winter to ensure that his progress doesn't slump much), and that Miles is not even in the ballpark - he's only ever topped the now-required 240mpd a handful of times so far.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 20 October, 2015, 05:25:39 pm
I think it is unnecessary and rather disrespectful to be quite so critical of Miles.

We're not talking about an attempt at an SR, LEJOG, or RRTY, PBP/LEL or even RAAM. This is an unbelievably punishing amount of riding across an entire year, such that only a very few cyclists have even attempted it in over a century. I doubt if anyone on this forum, even the highly experienced audax riders or time triallists, can even begin to imagine what attempting this record must be like, riding day in, day out.

So please, a little more humility and respect from those commenting on any of the riders challenging for this record.

Personally, I'm supporting Miles just as much as I am Steve or Kurt. Maybe he won't break the record, we'll see. The year is not yet out.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Justin(e) on 20 October, 2015, 06:36:36 pm
Personally, I'm supporting Miles just as much as I am Steve or Kurt.

Great post.

Allez Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 21 October, 2015, 08:24:07 am
I doubt if anyone on this forum, even the highly experienced audax riders or time triallists, can even begin to imagine what attempting this record must be like, riding day in, day out.
Are you aware that Steve is one of the original members of this forum?

I think legs is being a little harsh on Miles, but reality is that Miles's daily mileage is not enough to keep him in sight of the record. That's just simple maths.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 21 October, 2015, 08:58:03 am

Are you aware that Steve is one of the original members of this forum?

Yes I'm aware of that, and of the material and logistical support several forum members are providing.

What I meant was, most people here will have had a taste of riding long distances for a number of days in succession. That's not that same as riding 350k every day for a year.


I think legs is being a little harsh on Miles, but reality is that Miles's daily mileage is not enough to keep him in sight of the record. That's just simple maths.

Entirely possible. We'll see what happens. All three challengers have faced difficulties. Miles' may be insurmountable, but we'll see.

Is it true Tommy Godwin had to learn how to walk properly again after a year of pedalling?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 21 October, 2015, 09:03:59 am
Is it true Tommy Godwin had to learn how to walk properly again after a year of pedalling?

My understanding is that yes he did have some, as we might call it today, 'physiotherapy' to improve his walking, but this was specifically for the army as he was enlisted immediately following the challenge. I know of no evidence that suggested he couldn't actually walk about after he was done with riding.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 21 October, 2015, 09:04:57 am
Let's be frank.  Miles isn't going to get the record unless he restarts. 

To suggest otherwise is either overly polite, overly optimistic or overly silly.  Just as to point it out is either overly rude, overly realistic or overly practical.

But what he is achieving is still mighty impressive and beyond what most cyclists I have met have either the hunger or ability to do.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 21 October, 2015, 09:23:53 am
I think it is unnecessary and rather disrespectful to be quite so critical of Miles.
If you read my post again, you'll note that my criticism is not of Miles' riding, which is impressive (it seems likely that he'll finish his year with one of the highest tallies ever recorded), but of his head-in-the-sand view of his progress, as highlighted by his response to TimC's Facebook post.  He has made no out-and-out acknowledgement that he is targeting anything less than the Godwin record (look at the cover picture on his Facebook page!), so to say that he's still on target rather undermines his credibility. 

See also, for example, his Facebook post from October 17:
Quote from: GoMiles
Should finish somewhere between 400 and 450 km's for the day.
I'm not going to go to the trouble of pointing out the exact distance he travelled on that day because I'm not sure whether he's really referring to a calendar day or a 24-hour period of riding, and to try drilling down into his Strava data would make me seem like a misanthropic, nitpicking bastard, so you might be best looking to Jo's daily summaries to get a feel as to whether this short-term target was met.

Are half of the posts in the IronOx thread unnecessary and disrespectful?

This is a well-known issue in sport. Say you are an amateur 10 000m runner. Your PB is 59m, you commonly run 65. At 5 000m you are on 29 [more like] 35m, well ahead behind of PB pace. You congratulate yourself....
FTFY  :-\

But what he is achieving is still mighty impressive and beyond what most cyclists I have met have either the hunger or ability to do.
Indeed, it's arguably more impressive to carry on churning out the big distances when/if you know in your heart of hearts that you're not going to break the record.

Go Miles!

Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 21 October, 2015, 11:35:49 am
Let's be frank.  Miles isn't going to get the record unless he restarts. 

I never suggested otherwise. It's also the case that neither Kurt nor Steve can assume the record is theirs either. We shall see once their respective years are up.

But what he is achieving is still mighty impressive and beyond what most cyclists I have met have either the hunger or ability to do.

Indeed. For this he deserves credit and respect.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 21 October, 2015, 11:42:19 am

If you read my post again, you'll note that my criticism is not of Miles' riding, which is impressive (it seems likely that he'll finish his year with one of the highest tallies ever recorded), but of his head-in-the-sand view of his progress, as highlighted by his response to TimC's Facebook post.  He has made no out-and-out acknowledgement that he is targeting anything less than the Godwin record (look at the cover picture on his Facebook page!), so to say that he's still on target rather undermines his credibility. 

None of us can truly know what is going on unless we are riding with him. Yes it may be unlikely he'll beat Godwin, but he may yet claim other scalps in the history of this record. Let's wait and see what transpires before criticising too harshly, is what I am saying.


Are half of the posts in the IronOx thread unnecessary and disrespectful?


That comparison in itself is rather unnecessary and disrespectful. Miles' efforts may not gain him the record, but are noteworthy nevertheless.


But what he is achieving is still mighty impressive and beyond what most cyclists I have met have either the hunger or ability to do.
Indeed, it's arguably more impressive to carry on churning out the big distances when/if you know in your heart of hearts that you're not going to break the record.

Go Miles!

This I can agree with you on. Let's see what Miles has in the tank now that the southern hemisphere is warming up. Maybe not the Godwin record, but something impressive looks likely to be achieved nevertheless.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mattc on 21 October, 2015, 03:02:15 pm
I just can't get interested in someone aiming for 2/3rds of an existing record (especially knowing nothing about the guy beforehand).

( Then why are you posting on this thread, eh Matt?? - Ed )
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 21 October, 2015, 05:28:21 pm
Miles' riding is indeed impressive in an absolute sense, and very few people could hope to do similar, but he has expressly and publicly targeted Tommy's record and so must be judged on that basis - especially when he's already restarted once because of earlier difficulties. It is evident that he does not have, and has never had, a plan to achieve the 75,000 miles he needs, and is not realistically assessing his progress against the increasing daily target distances. Every day he completes significantly less than (the currently required) 240 or so miles is a day further away from the record. Kurt and Steve have both recognised and assimilated the difficulties of the task, and have adapted their riding accordingly. I see no evidence that Miles is doing so, or intends to. So, impressive and creditable as his riding is, in the context of the record it's not good enough.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 21 October, 2015, 05:59:15 pm
I get the impression that Miles doesn't actually know how far behind target he is.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 22 October, 2015, 06:09:06 am
I was just reading back through the OYTT thread to revisit our expectations during the early months of the challenge. It is interesting to note that Steve posted this in April after 4 months of OYTT riding, during the period when he was on the trike with his leg in plaster:

Quote from: Steve
I reckon that if I am 6000 miles down when I get back on the Raleigh and can get back onto the 82000 mile schedule I should just do it. I started this in January with 2 months of no cycling and went straight onto the 87000 mile schedule. I am not beaten yet."

That's not so different to Miles's self-belief. Maybe that kind of optimism is necessary to get you up in the morning, day after day, for another couple of hundred miles of riding.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 22 October, 2015, 10:39:33 pm
Despite wishing Miles well on his challenge, I have to confess to being rather frustrated by his GPS ineptitude compared to Kurt and Steve. Today's riding, which totalled 130 miles within the 24 hour period, comprised no less than 8 separate GPS uploads. Yesterday's 4 uploads included a 30km stretch at unfeasibly high speed, presumably because he left the GPS on while on the train. The day before that included an upload of 0km...

One GPS upload per day would be very nice Miles.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 22 October, 2015, 11:42:59 pm
Despite wishing Miles well on his challenge, I have to confess to being rather frustrated by his GPS ineptitude compared to Kurt and Steve. Today's riding, which totalled 130 miles within the 24 hour period, comprised no less than 8 separate GPS uploads. Yesterday's 4 uploads included a 30km stretch at unfeasibly high speed, presumably because he left the GPS on while on the train. The day before that included an upload of 0km...

One GPS upload per day would be very nice Miles.

He's doing it via Garmin Connect I think. Every time he stops an activity he's syncing it via a mobile phone I guess. It's been set up to do it for him by one of his team AFAIK. I get the impression from his FB posts that he's a bit technically challenged  ;D
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: rabbit on 30 October, 2015, 03:45:26 pm
Just LOVE the fact that Miles is still heading out there - for what reason I have no idea, but it's obviously keeping him motivated.  Lets not forget riding even 100-150 miles every day day after day after day would be hard, but even more so surely when the likelihood of taking the record is becoming infinitely small.  Hope he gets a book deal or something or whatever it is he wants from this huge effort of his.  It's very bizarre, but brilliant all the same  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Justin(e) on 30 October, 2015, 04:02:04 pm
It's very bizarre, but brilliant all the same  :thumbsup:

Maybe he just enjoys bike riding.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 31 October, 2015, 03:24:35 pm
Isn't he still in with a chance of beating the Australian record?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 31 October, 2015, 05:55:30 pm
I had a conversation with my daughter, who also lives in Melbourne, the other UK evening whilst she was on her way to work. Although a fervent Wales supporter, she was hoping for an Aussie win in the World Cup as apparently Australian Prime Ministers are in the habit of awarding impromptu public holidays when there is some kind of notable national sporting achievement*. If Miles were to break this record then he might well become a national hero.

*She was in the car with her boyfriend, the phone on speaker. I asked if they had had a public holiday when Australia came second in the Ashes a few months back. She thought that was quite amusing.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Sio2111 on 01 November, 2015, 12:58:08 pm
Just looking at the official spreadsheet  http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/ (http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/). It's got Miles listed as having 3 concurrent attempts. The most recent starting on Sept 23rd. Did he announce this elsewhere? Does this make sense of his optimism? Anyone have any further knowledge about this?

 ???
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 02 November, 2015, 04:29:48 pm
Just looking at the official spreadsheet  http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/ (http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/). It's got Miles listed as having 3 concurrent attempts. The most recent starting on Sept 23rd. Did he announce this elsewhere? Does this make sense of his optimism? Anyone have any further knowledge about this?

 ???

Interesting. Miles' starts #1 and #2 are listed as inactive from 16th October so does that mean he only actually has one attempt running from 23rd September? Steve is shown as still having two starts running.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 02 November, 2015, 05:31:32 pm
Even starting from the 23rd September, Miles is only averaging 163 mpd, requiring 211 mpd for the remaining 325 days. In his three attempts so far, he has not managed a 211 mpd average for more than a couple of days consecutively, so I can't see him hitting the record on this third try.

I can't remember if I've said this before, but I think it is pity UMCA are allowing restarts within such a short time period, especially if for no particular reason other than wanting to do a bit better than a rider's previous average. It reminds me of being a teenager playing computer racing games and pressing restart at the merest hint of a poor cornering in the hope of doing a 'perfect' lap.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 02 November, 2015, 06:51:31 pm
Even starting from the 23rd September, Miles is only averaging 163 mpd, requiring 211 mpd for the remaining 325 days. In his three attempts so far, he has not managed a 211 mpd average for more than a couple of days consecutively, so I can't see him hitting the record on this third try.

I can't remember if I've said this before, but I think it is pity UMCA are allowing restarts within such a short time period, especially if for no particular reason other than wanting to do a bit better than a rider's previous average. It reminds me of being a teenager playing computer racing games and pressing restart at the merest hint of a poor cornering in the hope of doing a 'perfect' lap.

Most modern racing games have rewind functionality where you can replay the last few seconds where you messed up a corner. No need to restart the whole race :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 03 November, 2015, 11:39:54 am
Just posted on FB...

Quote
Better day today. Things running to plan. Will clear daily the WR figure plus our target daily figure. If I do this 40 times, I will pass both of the other guys average daily figures, more importantly I will get all the way to Warrnambool tonight for 6:08 AM return train in the morning.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Ham on 03 November, 2015, 11:56:23 am
Even starting from the 23rd September, Miles is only averaging 163 mpd, requiring 211 mpd for the remaining 325 days. In his three attempts so far, he has not managed a 211 mpd average for more than a couple of days consecutively, so I can't see him hitting the record on this third try.

I can't remember if I've said this before, but I think it is pity UMCA are allowing restarts within such a short time period, especially if for no particular reason other than wanting to do a bit better than a rider's previous average. It reminds me of being a teenager playing computer racing games and pressing restart at the merest hint of a poor cornering in the hope of doing a 'perfect' lap.

The critical difference between the two is that the cyclists have to "pay" for their laps by knocking out day after of 200-ish mile rides, I think that earns them the right to press the restart button.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 03 November, 2015, 12:02:56 pm
If you need a doctor's note to restart, I am sure Steve could have provided one.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 03 November, 2015, 01:29:17 pm
Just posted on FB...

Quote
Better day today. Things running to plan. Will clear daily the WR figure plus our target daily figure. If I do this 40 times, I will pass both of the other guys average daily figures, more importantly I will get all the way to Warrnambool tonight for 6:08 AM return train in the morning.

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHC4-1UXA1w/UIhvH2sC6SI/AAAAAAAAAxc/vw0Y-HPlseI/s1600/proofinpudding.png)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 03 November, 2015, 08:14:05 pm
Just posted on FB...

Quote
Better day today. Things running to plan. Will clear daily the WR figure plus our target daily figure. If I do this 40 times, I will pass both of the other guys average daily figures, more importantly I will get all the way to Warrnambool tonight for 6:08 AM return train in the morning.

I am genuinely puzzled by his assessment. Not to disparage his effort, but I don't see how this tallies with the facts. Today he has submitted rides of:

129.7km
6.0km
3.7km
85.2km
84.9km
11.9km

(and if you're being generous, another ride of 1km that looks like a bit of GPS meandering). That last ride finished at midnight and he immediately followed it with another ride of 103.1km, but since the first in that sequence also started at midnight, you can't use 28 hours of riding as an indicator of 24 hours' worth.

The 24 hours of riding totals 321.4km or 199.7 miles, less than the minimum of 205.6 mpd average and considerably less than that required to  "pass both of the other guys average daily figures" in 40 days. Am I missing something?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Sio2111 on 03 November, 2015, 08:46:10 pm
Just posted on FB...

Quote
Better day today. Things running to plan. Will clear daily the WR figure plus our target daily figure. If I do this 40 times, I will pass both of the other guys average daily figures, more importantly I will get all the way to Warrnambool tonight for 6:08 AM return train in the morning.

I am genuinely puzzled by his assessment. Not to disparage his effort, but I don't see how this tallies with the facts. Today he has submitted rides of:

129.7km
6.0km
3.7km
85.2km
84.9km
11.9km

(and if you're being generous, another ride of 1km that looks like a bit of GPS meandering). That last ride finished at midnight and he immediately followed it with another ride of 103.1km, but since the first in that sequence also started at midnight, you can't use 28 hours of riding as an indicator of 24 hours' worth.

The 24 hours of riding totals 321.4km or 199.7 miles, less than the minimum of 205.6 mpd average and considerably less than that required to  "pass both of the other guys average daily figures" in 40 days. Am I missing something?

I can't make sense of it either. I wish I could understand what figures he is working to as I am struggling to see how he is coming to the conclusions he's putting out there on Facebook.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 03 November, 2015, 09:25:38 pm
I hope he wasn't inspired by the prospect of being made Sir Miles Smith. 

If so, his PM has recently delivered some bad news for his hopes.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 03 November, 2015, 10:44:14 pm
Just posted on FB...

Quote
Better day today. Things running to plan. Will clear daily the WR figure plus our target daily figure. If I do this 40 times, I will pass both of the other guys average daily figures, more importantly I will get all the way to Warrnambool tonight for 6:08 AM return train in the morning.

I am genuinely puzzled by his assessment. Not to disparage his effort, but I don't see how this tallies with the facts. Today he has submitted rides of:

129.7km
6.0km
3.7km
85.2km
84.9km
11.9km

(and if you're being generous, another ride of 1km that looks like a bit of GPS meandering). That last ride finished at midnight and he immediately followed it with another ride of 103.1km, but since the first in that sequence also started at midnight, you can't use 28 hours of riding as an indicator of 24 hours' worth.

The 24 hours of riding totals 321.4km or 199.7 miles, less than the minimum of 205.6 mpd average and considerably less than that required to  "pass both of the other guys average daily figures" in 40 days. Am I missing something?

I can't make sense of it either. I wish I could understand what figures he is working to as I am struggling to see how he is coming to the conclusions he's putting out there on Facebook.

Much as Miles' achievements are, by all normal metrics, amazing, his assessment of his progress in the HAMR challenge seems to be out of step with the facts, and I really can't see what on earth he's using to judge that progress. Is he being misinformed by supporters? Has he some bizarre Km/miles conversion factor that disguises the disparity? Is he just deluding himself? It's all very odd!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 04 November, 2015, 08:38:45 am
Is he comparing his rides at the same number of days in with Kurt/Steve after those numbers of days in?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TheRedEyeJedi on 04 November, 2015, 09:20:37 am
Maybe Glen McGrath is doing his predictions?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 04 November, 2015, 10:51:20 am
Is he comparing his rides at the same number of days in with Kurt/Steve after those numbers of days in?

Most probably. He has restarted, has he not, following the apparently poor winter weather?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 04 November, 2015, 11:19:11 am
Is he comparing his rides at the same number of days in with Kurt/Steve after those numbers of days in?

Most probably. He has restarted, has he not, following the apparently poor winter weather?

He has restarted - twice, and according to the UCMA, these aren't concurrent attempts; starts 1 & 2 are now registered as 'inactive'. Miles had completed 3918.8 miles on his third attempt by 31 October (39 days). I had thought he was measuring his progress against Tommy's equivalent day, but Tommy's Day 39 figure was 5991 miles. Kurt's at Day 39 was 7850 and Steve's 7241 on attempt 1 and 7940 on attempt 2 (all figures from the UCMA site). The 'average progress' line of 39 'Standard Godwins (205 and a bit miles) would have 8021.7 miles on Day 39. I just don't understand on what basis Miles thinks he's on WR pace?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 04 November, 2015, 12:27:26 pm
I think it's safe to discount Miles' likelihood of breaking this record, now.  He seems to be completely detached from the reality of how things are going.  Is it more charitable to suggest that his attempt is unplanned, rather than poorly planned?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 04 November, 2015, 05:26:40 pm
I've reset my OYTT chart page (http://gicentre.org/oytt) to show Miles' 3rd attempt only (from 23rd September).

Below is the progress all the riders have made between 23rd Sept and today. Perhaps this would help Miles judge his progress and what he has to achieve (which is to average 211 mpd for the next 318 days just to reach Tommy's pace)

(http://gicentre.org/oytt/images/oytt4Nov.png)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 04 November, 2015, 05:32:24 pm
Miles had completed 3918.8 miles on his third attempt by 31 October (39 days). I had thought he was measuring his progress against Tommy's equivalent day, but Tommy's Day 39 figure was 5991 miles. Kurt's at Day 39 was 7850 and Steve's 7241 on attempt 1 and 7940 on attempt 2 (all figures from the UCMA site). The 'average progress' line of 39 'Standard Godwins (205 and a bit miles) would have 8021.7 miles on Day 39. I just don't understand on what basis Miles thinks he's on WR pace?

I don't think that's quite right. I make Miles' total on his third attempt currently 6728 miles (in 42 days), which puts him marginally ahead of Tommy's first 42 days (6402 miles). It may be that it is Tommy's winter profile that is giving Miles cause for optimism. But as we know, it is unwise to try to match Tommy's profile given the mega distances he put in over sustained periods of the summer to make up his own winter deficit.

Edit: I see that that figure of 3918.8 comes from the UMCA spreadsheet, but that total is only as far as 16th October (24 days).
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 04 November, 2015, 06:17:35 pm
Ah, thanks Jo - you're quite right. The UCMA stuff is not easy to decipher! Yes, that would explain why he might think he's on WR pace, but that would mean he's learned nothing either from his own earlier efforts, or from Steve and Kurt's experience. But, Steve himself thought he could ride a profile that did better than Tommy in the winter so he didn't have to ride quite so hard in the summer (but still looking at outrageous daily totals!) - and was still optimistic that might be the case even as he was convalescing with his broken ankle. He has a more pragmatic approach now; I hope that Miles sees the advantages of the steadier pace before it's too late.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 08 November, 2015, 08:47:20 pm
Does anyone know how Miles is actually getting on (as opposed to guessing from his posted ride stats which is all I can do)? He's lost 1000 miles in the last week compared to Godwin pace, including three days with little or no riding [84,200,67,2,0,65 and 0 miles]. I hope he's in good physical and mental condition.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: wajcgac on 08 November, 2015, 09:12:43 pm

His Facebook page gives some vague info on his current progress and problems he is having

https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU (https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU)

A couple of snippets from recent posts

Quote
This will give me a WR pace day and thus I lose only 3 days this week.

Quote
Good news is, If I had looked after myself, first run to Seymour was done in 4 hrs/62 miles. This includes crossing Melbourne CBD at 1AM Friday night/Sat morning. That's 240 in 16 hrs. I was easing up during ride as 1.5 hrs ahead of plan (.5 late leaving, 1hr made up on ride) and southerly not kicked in with any strength until after I tried to 'rev the nuts off a cold engine'.

My bold on the last quote

You've got to give him credit for having a positive outlook.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 08 November, 2015, 09:58:31 pm
I am utterly perplexed by this. His facebook posts make it clear he thinks he is exceeding WR pace; but the HAMR leaderboard doesn't show any such mileage.
Is it possible he is having technical issues and his actual miles aren't being logged properly?

He posted this for the 1st of nov
Quote
Going down the bay early (80 miles/125 km's), back by 9:00 to catch train to Warrnambool (sweet delicious sleep) then ride home (170 miles/270 km's) via Geelong
the hamr leaderboard shows 200miles for that day. Not 230.

He's posting some monster miles on the hamr board some days but those are always followed by low mileages. Could be a result of his (quite often) posting split miles for a 24hr period.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 08 November, 2015, 10:07:09 pm
I was trying to interpret his FB posts. He mentioned that he was eating loads to make up for weight he's lost in the last few days. Implying he's had some sort of tummy bug maybe? It's not entirely clear.

It does appear that he might be trying to mirror Tommy's line and that's the WR pace he keeps referring to.

I don't understand why he would abandon his 2nd effort either, why not run it concurrently? It's not like he stopped for several weeks, he was still racking up mileage.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 09 November, 2015, 09:20:08 am
As Jo's mentioned before, Miles does seem to be, um, 'technically challenged'! The whole Garmin thing seems utterly beyond him, and has been set up and is presumably managed by someone else. I do wonder, from the tone of his FB posts, if a) his miles aren't being correctly logged or b) he's not actually aware of his logged progress and someone's telling him porkies! It would be a crying shame to find that he's actually done the miles but someone didn't upload them properly.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 09 November, 2015, 09:28:57 am
It would be a crying shame to find that he's actually done the miles but someone didn't upload them properly.

 :(

Seems like the most likely explanation of the gap between his Fb claims and the Strava totals, unless it's a 24-hour split issue? OTOH he also seems to have had a few other problems the past few days too.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 09 November, 2015, 09:41:52 am
Had there been a time when he hasn't had problems? He's on his second restart (third attempt) now, having binned the first two which were running concurrently. He seems quite often to have consecutive days of little or no riding. He comments frequently on the wind, though often uses trains to get him to somewhere he can ride home with a tailwind, and seems to have had more than his share of motons spoiling his day. The FB page is frustratingly incomplete as a record of his progress and difficulties, but the uploaded miles show a story of hope over achievement. He's not in the Ironox league of pretenders - there's no way I could or would attempt to achieve what he's done - but I just don't get what's going on here. Is he being deceived or is he deceiving us?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 09 November, 2015, 09:51:12 am
His challenge is quixotic.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mattc on 09 November, 2015, 10:20:41 am
Is he in the same UMCA age category as Steve or Kurt?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 09 November, 2015, 10:26:34 am
It would be a crying shame to find that he's actually done the miles but someone didn't upload them properly.

 :(

Seems like the most likely explanation of the gap between his Fb claims and the Strava totals, unless it's a 24-hour split issue? OTOH he also seems to have had a few other problems the past few days too.

AFAIK someone setup his Garmin to automatically upload via his mobile phone. I think that's why his Strava is littered with short rides, each time he presses stop he uploads. He must know what his official mileage is as it's on the UMCA website, unless he's not checking and no-one is telling him otherwise.

I'm pretty sure he's had food poisoning this past week...

Quote
This will give me a WR pace day and thus I lose only 3 days this week. Go V Line Sausage Rolls.

He's blaming a sausage roll here.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: marcusjb on 09 November, 2015, 10:54:39 am
Is he in the same UMCA age category as Steve or Kurt?

He's 53 (Kurt is 52 and Steve 41), so both Kurt and Miles are in the 50-59 division.

(take those ages with a slight pinch of salt - clearly on an event a year long, people have birthdays, so they may be a 54, 53 and 42 by now)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 09 November, 2015, 12:12:05 pm
Erm, I think his Facebook feed is saying he was suffering from really bad cramps that was limiting his cycling.  He's using a hot water bottle and magnesium tabs to relieve them. 

Admittedly I struggled to decipher meaning from his stream of consciousness - do VR Line sausage rolls have mescaline as an ingredient?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: danridesbikes on 09 November, 2015, 12:18:59 pm
Quote
AFAIK someone setup his Garmin to automatically upload via his mobile phone. I think that's why his Strava is littered with short rides, each time he presses stop he uploads.

its only after you save a ride it uploads,

the 510 he's using has an option to discard or save when you press stop, quite why he's saving when it says 0.0m, i don't know but a lot of the shorter ones of that actually have distance appear to be too and from the train station, which make more sense,

no idea when on and out and back along the bay he's resetting at one end though

someones asked the question on his FB, maybe he'll reply

Quote
What is a WR pace day? Is it the average 205 miles (75075/365) or is it what Tommy did on the equivalent day of his attempt? Where can we see a record of your total miles of this, your third, attempt?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 09 November, 2015, 01:08:42 pm
Quote
AFAIK someone setup his Garmin to automatically upload via his mobile phone. I think that's why his Strava is littered with short rides, each time he presses stop he uploads.

its only after you save a ride it uploads,

the 510 he's using has an option to discard or save when you press stop, quite why he's saving when it says 0.0m, i don't know but a lot of the shorter ones of that actually have distance appear to be too and from the train station, which make more sense,

no idea when on and out and back along the bay he's resetting at one end though

someones asked the question on his FB, maybe he'll reply

Quote
What is a WR pace day? Is it the average 205 miles (75075/365) or is it what Tommy did on the equivalent day of his attempt? Where can we see a record of your total miles of this, your third, attempt?

Yes, that was me, Dan. I've asked questions before without reply! I'm probably seen as subversive, but really all I'm trying to do is understand WTF this effort is all about.

Seconded on the Garmin thing too - I have an Edge 1000 and a Vivoactive, both of which work the same way. They'll autostop for breaks, and will do automatic tracking via a mobile if you want, but nothing gets saved till you hit 'save'. I can understand a degree of paranoia prompting a save at every stop (especially if rides have been lost in the past), but carrying a second Garmin would perhaps obviate that issue. Steve and Kurt seem to have cracked it, why not Miles?
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 09 November, 2015, 04:33:20 pm
Quote
AFAIK someone setup his Garmin to automatically upload via his mobile phone. I think that's why his Strava is littered with short rides, each time he presses stop he uploads.

its only after you save a ride it uploads,

the 510 he's using has an option to discard or save when you press stop, quite why he's saving when it says 0.0m, i don't know but a lot of the shorter ones of that actually have distance appear to be too and from the train station, which make more sense,

no idea when on and out and back along the bay he's resetting at one end though

someones asked the question on his FB, maybe he'll reply

Quote
What is a WR pace day? Is it the average 205 miles (75075/365) or is it what Tommy did on the equivalent day of his attempt? Where can we see a record of your total miles of this, your third, attempt?

Yes, that was me, Dan. I've asked questions before without reply! I'm probably seen as subversive, but really all I'm trying to do is understand WTF this effort is all about.

Seconded on the Garmin thing too - I have an Edge 1000 and a Vivoactive, both of which work the same way. They'll autostop for breaks, and will do automatic tracking via a mobile if you want, but nothing gets saved till you hit 'save'. I can understand a degree of paranoia prompting a save at every stop (especially if rides have been lost in the past), but carrying a second Garmin would perhaps obviate that issue. Steve and Kurt seem to have cracked it, why not Miles?

I use a 510 and upload via my mobile so yes, presumably he's hitting "Stop" then "Save" and then it uploads. TBF it's not entirely clear on the 510 that you can continue a ride once you press stop by navigating off of the "Discard/Save" screen and/or by pressing "Start".
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 09 November, 2015, 04:57:09 pm
Yes, that may be a reason he's saving each time - I learned (very quickly) by experimenting that a Garmin recording can be resumed if you've stopped it by pressing 'start' again. But perhaps Miles is a bit intimidated by the tech? He wouldn't be the first - or last.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 10 November, 2015, 08:28:27 am
Miles posted that a friend had been killed (car/bike accident). He's obviously really hit hard by this, says he won't be posting messages for a while.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: marcusjb on 10 November, 2015, 09:02:14 am
From Miles' Facebook for those that don't:

2AM Monday morning saw flicking through a well thumbed Sunday newspaper, whilst eating my burger. I read that a cyclist had been killed, the driver of a 4 wheel drive had been arrested and the location was where a well known and loved Audax ride was taking place over the weekend.
This was how I found out the Jimmy Chant had been killed.
I rode with Jimmy in Queensland, NSW and of course Victoria.
I'll not be posting anything more for a couple of days.


Very sad indeed and just an awful way to find out about a friend's death.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Justin(e) on 10 November, 2015, 09:46:31 am
From Miles' Facebook:

I read that a cyclist had been killed ...

Bloody hell. 

Every one of us has near misses.  Commiserations to family and friends.  Especially to the friend tackling the HAMR.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 10 November, 2015, 09:56:47 am
Crumbs.  What a traumatic event to have to deal with.  Hope Miles is OK.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 10 November, 2015, 10:53:29 am
My sincere condolences to Jimmy's family and friends.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 10 November, 2015, 11:03:28 am
Not good at all. I'm not surprised he's knocked for six. Chin up, Miles. And condolences to Jimmy's close ones.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 11 November, 2015, 08:41:57 am
Miles' ride on Sunday has now been uploaded on Strava (previously this was down as a no-ride day). It is possible that there may be a few others that get uploaded out of sequence several days or more after the event, which may in part explain the discrepancy between logged distances and Miles' self-reporting. It's too tedious for me to wade back through Strava looking for previously unlogged rides and there is some uncertainty as to whether UMCA would accept them anyway, so I will wait until the next batch of officially recorded distances from them before comparing with my own record.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Shreds on 11 November, 2015, 10:05:29 pm
Sort of badly distorts the Strava weekly stats though, with 541 miles and 15 rides on this weeks leader board.

(I know thats not important in the bigger picture),

Sincere condolences to the family of the rider wiped out by the 4x4.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: marcusjb on 16 November, 2015, 09:41:19 am
From Miles' Facebook:

Due to recent events, the compounding effects of prior problems, and discussion with my support team, I have decided to pull out of the HAM'R.

I wish the remaining competitors, and new competitors due to start in the new year, a good tailwind and thanks to all who boosted my sometimes flagging efforts with your messages of support and goodwill.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: TimC on 16 November, 2015, 10:18:04 am
Sad to read, but perhaps inevitable. I hope Miles can regroup, have a good think about how to organise and plan a credible attempt and have another go - there's no doubt in my mind he's capable of riding the incredible distances required; he just needs the organisation and target awareness to add to the ability.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 16 November, 2015, 12:26:26 pm
^ Indeed.  Miles is to be applauded on his tenacity on the bike in the face of considerable difficulties.   :thumbsup:

That such a capable rider has put in such a physically impressive performance but still fallen so far short of the record is affirmation, if any more were needed, of how amazing Tommy's, Kurt's and Steve's achievements are.
It would be great to see Miles gather together the collective learnings of all the HAM'R experiences to give this another shot sometime.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 16 November, 2015, 02:00:11 pm
Sad to hear, but I understand his decision.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Justin(e) on 16 November, 2015, 04:04:56 pm
Often I hear people being congratulated for finishing an event, and then the participants who failed to finish are also congratulated for "giving it a go".  Normally this rings hollow - in this case I whole heartedly applaud Miles for his valiant attempt at one hell of a challenge.

Re Legs post: In all probability Miles will see your post.  If you would not feel comfortable with showing him a picture of this IRL, then maybe consider removing.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 16 November, 2015, 05:04:59 pm
It's gone, although judging by what I've read of his posts here and on Facetube I'd credit him with sufficient robustness and good humour to see it in the manner intended.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 16 November, 2015, 05:19:56 pm
Possibly. But just as it is hard for all of us to picture exactly what any of the OYTT riders are going through given the scale of the challenge, it may be difficult to appreciate what having to give up the challenge after months of sacrifice must feel like. Additionally, Miles received bad news about a cycling friend of his who was killed on the road last week, so he must be going through quite a lot at the moment.

I hope he knows we all wish him well and remain in awe of what he has achieved in the last 8 months.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Shreds on 16 November, 2015, 06:04:17 pm
+1
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: crowriver on 16 November, 2015, 06:55:08 pm
Very sad to hear. Understandable perhaps given recent developments.

If Miles decides to try again at some point, I'm sure we will be here to cheer him on.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Basil on 16 November, 2015, 08:03:54 pm
Very sad to hear. Understandable perhaps given recent developments.

If Miles decides to try again at some point, I'm sure we will be here to cheer him on.

Yup.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Justin(e) on 16 November, 2015, 08:25:25 pm
It's gone.

Thanks.  I really don't like to be that super sensitive internet guy, but appreciate your gesture nonetheless.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 16 November, 2015, 08:38:46 pm
Shame but understandable. Hopefully he will give it another go at some point having gained from the experience of this/these attempt/s. He's had a tough time with roads, health, mechanicals and weather.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: spongebrainfatpants on 10 December, 2015, 07:39:37 am
This from Miles' FB page

http://cyclingtips.com.au/2015/12/failure-while-daring-greatly-miles-smiths-year-record-attempt-is-over-for-now/
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 10 December, 2015, 08:55:57 am
Quote from: the article
he managed to ride just over 48,479km between April and his last ride, with 19,400km over the last 48 days (i.e. just over 400km per day)

Now, Strava does indeed think that he has ridden 30,479.2m in 2015 (~49,000km), but his Strava-recorded total for the last 48 days (25 Sep-12 Nov) is 8,979 miles (13727km).  THAT is double-counting the many Group Activities where Miles has erroneously uploaded the same activity twice (I think this happens if you're uploading via that horrible Garmin Connect?  His records only start showing this defect from October - where his mileage chart appears to go upwards!)  Maybe this is the source of his confusion about how far he'd gone - was he just looking at the weekly mileage bar charts on Strava?  Take for example the week 26 Oct - 1 Nov:

Crediting him with the longer of the two distances for every ride double-counted gives him
2.4+90.6+35.4+52.8+2.5+2.3+92.6+60+0+60.5+0+0.8+64.5+58.5+58.1+6.3+4.5+57.7+59.0+4.0+28.5+1.6+39.0+38.0+38.0+42.1+30.0+4.+2.5+121.3+3.4 = 1061.4 miles
The eleven doubly-counted rides come to
62.5+35.1+2.2+91.6+60.2+63.5+57.9+3.8+37.9+29.9+3.1 = 447.7 miles

So, whereas Miles actually only rode 1061.4 miles in a week (151.6 mpd, 0.737 Godwins), he might think he rode 1509.1 (or the Strava-totalled 1510.7, which will exclude, I think, rounding errors) (215.6mpd, 1.048 Godwins).  (Surely it can't be that difficult to tell the difference between a 151.6mpd week and a 215.6mpd week?  Does arithmetic work differently on the other side of the planet?)

Still nowhere near the 250mpd that the article quotes, but maybe an explanation for the misplaced optimism?  The only viable explanation to make up the difference is that he has rides which are not logged on Strava, but, given that the UMCA rules have strict stipulations that rides should be logged on Strava, it is churlish to argue that unproven miles should be verified.  Given his team's level of recording ineptitude, it is a bit rich to vent in the article about "frustrations over inaccurate UMCA records"!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 10 December, 2015, 08:59:27 am
This from Miles' FB page

http://cyclingtips.com.au/2015/12/failure-while-daring-greatly-miles-smiths-year-record-attempt-is-over-for-now/

"...with 19,400km over the last 48 days (i.e. just over 400km per day)..."

Seems his mileage records weren't agreeing with UCMA's
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: red marley on 10 December, 2015, 10:02:10 am
Thanks Legs for the analysis and explanation. That makes sense and is closer to my own records of his progress too. One minor detail, UMCA do not require a Strava record (http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/) so the fact that Strava is incorrectly accumulating multiple overlapping ride submissions isn't itself an official record problem (although it does make it harder for the rest of us, and, as you suggest, may have in part let to team Miles' own confusion).
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Legs on 10 December, 2015, 10:46:34 am
One minor detail, UMCA do not require a Strava record (http://ultracycling.com/sections/records/data/hamr/official_results/)
Aha!  I stand corrected.  :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: swampthing on 10 December, 2015, 11:42:38 am
http://cyclingtips.com.au/2015/12/failure-while-daring-greatly-miles-smiths-year-record-attempt-is-over-for-now/

"...with 19,400km over the last 48 days (i.e. just over 400km per day)..."

Seems his mileage records weren't agreeing with UCMA's

"The last 48 days" when Miles uploaded rides cover the time span from 26th September to 12th November.

23rd September is the starting day of his 3rd record attempt (as presented in the UMCA's "official results"-file). So the article claims he left the HAMR with his current attempt being around +20% above the Godwin-line!?  ???

The UMCA's official results give a total of 7137 miles for his last 48 days, indicating that the double-counting mentioned by legs applies to about 1800 miles on Strava.
When I sporadically tried to retrace Miles' facebook-entries I did not find hints of lost miles/ rides in his Strava-account.

As before: More questions than answers.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: danridesbikes on 10 December, 2015, 10:12:04 pm
a simple look at Miles' average speeds from his longer Garmin uploads, points you to the fact that its very unlikely to be 400km a day,

the Garmin issue was an issue from day 1, and the attempt and restarts seemingly got more detached from reality as it went on,

however he still did record a huge amount of miles which gets a  :thumbs:

but the whole thing from the start was a bit  :-\ all in all, very confusing from a spectator point of view
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: jochta on 18 December, 2015, 07:47:16 am
He still thinks he did 400km+ a day for the last month...

Quote
Getting ready for Alpine Classic, both The Journey & The Limit (High Routeurs Society -http://www.highrouleur.cc/the-rules/ ) and a couple of Everest's not to mention the Audax Tour of Tasmania. I'm in touch with the Guinness Book of Records re the last month of the HAM'R, when I rode over 400 KM's per day (12,000 km's/7,700 miles) after several months of riding, and doing the 365 day challenge without middlemen changing the rules from a distance challenge to a number of days spent on the bike, irrespective of the distance ridden challenge.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: hillbilly on 18 December, 2015, 08:55:52 am
He's generating more whats off the bike than on it  ;)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 18 December, 2015, 09:09:05 am
He still thinks he did 400km+ a day for the last month...

Quote
Getting ready for Alpine Classic, both The Journey & The Limit (High Routeurs Society -http://www.highrouleur.cc/the-rules/ ) and a couple of Everest's not to mention the Audax Tour of Tasmania. I'm in touch with the Guinness Book of Records re the last month of the HAM'R, when I rode over 400 KM's per day (12,000 km's/7,700 miles) after several months of riding, and doing the 365 day challenge without middlemen changing the rules from a distance challenge to a number of days spent on the bike, irrespective of the distance ridden challenge.
I saw that. What a very weird post. Miles may be a nice chap and all, but there is considerable delusion going on there, not to mention nonsense about rules being changed.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: paul851 on 18 May, 2016, 07:32:12 am
According to Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU/) Miles is planning another attempt on the record starting on the 3rd of September,hopefully he will have more luck and better organization this time round .


Paul
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: DaveE128 on 19 May, 2016, 10:38:22 am
Yeah, I saw that - I was quite surprised! Will watch with interest!
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: clarion on 20 May, 2016, 03:11:03 pm
Hopefully he will have taken notes from Steve and Kurt's rides. :)
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: michaelo on 20 April, 2017, 08:40:11 pm
Taken from FB - looks like another attempt:


"All up a 1,800 long weekend,.  Starting to build from maintenance to strengthening mode for July kick off (split Oz winter into two) for the HAM'R WR Challenge.  The 'Doored' shoulder was fine, the fingers at 4:30 at the top of Mt Buffalo less so, must get me some of those full fingered gloves :-)  The ride up to and back from Wang on the Hume was great as the emergency services and support organisations were all doing the driver reviver thing,.  Great Sausage Sanger's (with Onions) by the SES.  Only one punishment pass, but it was a good one, full strength truck air horn and a good four foot incursion into the Emergency Stopping Lane at 100 Kmp at Seymour going South. Ah, what can you do, even in the ranks of the professional drivers you get them. However for the record, those the guys that drive those things deserve medals for what they have to put up with in their work environment."
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Wowbagger on 20 April, 2017, 09:12:05 pm
Let's hope he is a bit more careful with his recording/submitting on this attempt.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: CrazyEnglishTriathlete on 20 April, 2017, 10:01:34 pm
His problems is the same as TGs  - the bar has been raised somewhat by Amanda Coker.
Title: Re: A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: cameronp on 21 April, 2017, 01:52:34 am
I've met Miles a couple of times and he's nice chap but does seem somewhat bonkers. This time he's planning to do a significant portion of his HAMR attempt on a mountain bike. He has a couple of Giant XTC hardtails modified with his trademark gigantic chainrings and slick tyres fitted. He loves them but I'm not convinced that this is the easy option for trying to beat Amanda's record.

It does seem that he's learned a bit from his first attempt, though. One of his recent Facebook posts (possibly in a closed group) mentioned that he's been doing a lot more planning and preparation this time around. I wish him luck - he'll certainly need it!

After the recent tragic loss of Mike Hall and remembering Miles' injuries from his first attempt, I also have to wonder about the wisdom of trying to take the record on Australian roads. I hope, at the very least, that he's going to aim for quieter roads this time and not spend most of his time bombing down major highways.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: swampthing on 04 July, 2018, 09:24:23 am
Looks like Miles Smith started a new HAM'R-attempt yesterday (July 3rd, 2018), as his Facebook-page suggests. UMCA-page (which still lists Steve's attempt as "in progress") does not mention anything.

He loaded up 5 rides on Strava for his starting day, and claims that he accidentally deleted his first ride.  :facepalm:

Miles' chaotic data collection and UMCA's negligent examination will make it hard to follow his progress.  :demon:

But I'm pretty sure he will not get close to Tommy's distance anyway.

On Facebook:  @GoMilesAU/
Strava:  https://www.strava.com/athletes/31096818
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: whosatthewheel on 04 July, 2018, 10:30:36 am
21 followers on Strava... this year he has cycled half the distance I have... now HAMR... I mean... really??  ::-) ::-)
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: swampthing on 04 July, 2018, 04:13:46 pm
... this year he has cycled half the distance I have... now HAMR... I mean... really??  ::-) ::-)

I guess he did not upload all of his rides on Strava.

21 followers on Strava...

Marketing is surely not one of his strengths (nor transparency). The Facebook-entry below is his first after starting the HAM'R.

https://www.facebook.com/GoMilesAU/
I just tried to dele at two rides I did on the 2nd, 10 kms each, to ensure that it did not confuse the verification guys (I started the HAM'R this morning) at 10 AM PDT 2nd July (LA time) 3AM 3rd July Melbourne time. As I hit the ride selection, I missed and hit this morning ride to Geelong, 3AM start time, after which I caught the 5.55 AM train back to Melbourne, then the 7.11 AM train to Seymour to start ride two. The Hume south bound was closed this morning due to a car roll over south of Tallarook.
I've checked on spotracker and this has been overwritten, ...
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: whosatthewheel on 05 July, 2018, 06:34:05 am
... at least he seems to be quick... I think you need to be quick for this kind of record... speed buy you rest time... if you can do 360 km a day spending 12 hours or less on the saddle, it's a good start
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 05 July, 2018, 09:21:07 am
I follow him on facebook.

Miles can certainly ride. He has trouble operating technology and gets impatient and, although originally a brit, he now has a very 'Australian' attitude which can be a bit grating.
This is his third attempt, I believe. First stalled on injury, 2nd on technology (might have the order wrong there).

Biggest problem he has is consistency. Somedays he posts 250km, some hits 500! It makes it hard to keep track of what he is doing, where he has ridden and the km covered. Combined with his difficulties in technology, it will be difficult to prove his record attempt.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 05 July, 2018, 09:26:24 am
I have had dealings with Miles ..  both in Melbourne .. and recently. His grasp of technology is ZERO .. as a simple silly example .. I bought him some kit in Uk that he wanted .. and sent it to him in OZ. But despite providing IBAN and BIC numbers he will not reimburse me thru the banking system .. and refuses to do so thru Paypal .. as he claims that he does not want to be bombarded with ads.

trying to get this modest reimbursement dragged on for about 2 months with a raft of e-mail exchanges .. but in the end I had to give up .. he just would not use any logical way to reimburse me.

Given this background .. I find it difficult to wish him well

Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: bludger on 05 July, 2018, 09:30:02 am
Wow he wouldn't even get a more tech capable mate to paypal you instead? Not impressive at all.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: whosatthewheel on 05 July, 2018, 09:42:35 am
SOunds like a poor excuse for not paying you back... he is probably too skint.

I came across people like that, lots of excuses... annoyingly one of them is now professor at UCL
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 05 July, 2018, 12:01:15 pm
not sure about skint .. will  not use IBAN/BIC as does  not understand that these are needed for an international bank transfer ... keeps insisting that i give him sort code and account number .. and no matter how much i explain .. that this would work internally in OZ .. but not for an international payment and anyway the IBAN/BIC has my UK sort code and account number buried in them .. he still will not pay. In the end I got so exasperated I just told him to S*D OFF
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: swampthing on 05 July, 2018, 03:00:09 pm
... at least he seems to be quick... I think you need to be quick for this kind of record... speed buy you rest time... if you can do 360 km a day spending 12 hours or less on the saddle, it's a good start

Yes, average speed around 20 miles/ hour looks good. But he gets there by cycling south, taking a train north, cycling south, taking a train north ...
I expect the hours lost in trains are not oughtweighed by the benefits of a continous tailwind.

And I don't expect Miles to have really checked if this strategy pays off.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: D.A.L.E. on 05 July, 2018, 03:39:15 pm
Sounds like a bit of a dildo.

But best of luck to him.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 05 July, 2018, 03:45:36 pm
My limited input .. not sure that he has sufficient brain cells to work out just how hard it will be to keep riding day after day for 365 days. Not just the riding .. the eating , sleeping etc etc

Have not heard anything about a support team .. I might put a query out with my melbourne audax contacts to find out some more and report back
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: whosatthewheel on 05 July, 2018, 04:01:29 pm
A season ticket round there must be cheap...
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 05 July, 2018, 04:03:33 pm
Quote
UMCA's negligent examination

To be fair, UMCA is a volunteer organisation and has a dwindling number of members and active volunteers running the web site. AFAIK, there are only two who actually keep the records up to date and unless someone tells them what is going on, they will not be aware. At one time UMCA had the manpower to check around the ultra racing circuit, but no longer.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: stevie63 on 05 July, 2018, 04:31:46 pm
A season ticket round there must be cheap...

I was sad enough to look it up, and for 365 days I think it was about 1300AUD for unlimited trips between Melbourne and Seymour. Each train trip takes about an hour and the train runs 1-2 times an hour so he could lose up to 2 hours if he arrives at the station a few minutes after a train has departed. Though I suppose he can also sleep, eat and do other stuff in that time.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mattc on 05 July, 2018, 04:36:30 pm
A season ticket round there must be cheap...

I was sad enough to look it up, and for 365 days I think it was about 1300AUD for unlimited trips between Melbourne and Seymour. Each train trip takes about an hour and the train runs 1-2 times an hour so he could lose up to 2 hours if he arrives at the station a few minutes after a train has departed. Though I suppose he can also sleep, eat and do other stuff in that time.
... like ride his bike??
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: swampthing on 05 July, 2018, 11:06:28 pm
Quote
UMCA's negligent examination

AFAIK, there are only two who actually keep the records up to date and unless someone tells them what is going on, they will not be aware. At one time UMCA had the manpower to check around the ultra racing circuit, but no longer.

It's simple: Don't announce, what you can not really do. I perfectly understand that a volunteer organisation has limited ressources. But if you can't thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could.

And I am afraid that Miles Smith will definitely need laborious examination to comprehensibly keep track of his attempt.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 05 July, 2018, 11:13:20 pm
Quote
But if you can't thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could.

I'll bear that in mind next time I see you volunteer for anything.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: quixoticgeek on 06 July, 2018, 12:20:12 am

Can anyone explain the rationale of the giant chain ring? Is he grinding out an incredibly low cadence or something?

Can't seem to work out the advantage such a big ring would give in the real world vs say the track.

J
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Greenbank on 06 July, 2018, 01:01:08 am
I'll bear that in mind next time I see you volunteer for anything.

That's a bit of a boring trope. Plenty of people volunteer in lots of things, does that affect their ability to have an opinion about something else?

It's ok to complain about things if they are actually really shit, regardless of someone's volunteer status and hours in the bank.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Charlie Polecat on 06 July, 2018, 01:51:51 am
Are you the forum sycophant?

He said:
Quote
If you cant thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could

Which is nonsense because the UMCA have never said they would supervise it.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: whosatthewheel on 06 July, 2018, 06:14:26 am
Would it be UMCA allowed to have someone driving you up the top of a 20 mile climb, then cycle down, then drive up, then cycle down?

It is hypothetical, but do the regulations allow any type of cycling, so an Esher type scenario like the above where one is constantly going downhill would be OK?
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: teethgrinder on 06 July, 2018, 06:30:00 am
Quote
UMCA's negligent examination

AFAIK, there are only two who actually keep the records up to date and unless someone tells them what is going on, they will not be aware. At one time UMCA had the manpower to check around the ultra racing circuit, but no longer.

It's simple: Don't announce, what you can not really do. I perfectly understand that a volunteer organisation has limited ressources. But if you can't thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could.

And I am afraid that Miles Smith will definitely need laborious examination to comprehensibly keep track of his attempt.

Possibly, though I expect that it would end in another abandoned attempt.
In theory, everyone should have a follow car all the time. The UMCA knew that this was unlikely to happen for a year, which is why we have the live trackers, which have to be shown in public. Phtos, films and witnesses are encouraged. Each days ride must be uploaded within 24 hours. Everyone has used Strava so far but IIRC emailing the file from the GPS is acceptable. The UMCA are aware that GPSs can fail etc, so will accept tracking data, which will give a lower mileage.
Riders are now obliged to have a crew chief for HAMR (but not a HMMR) since Bruce Berkley gave the UMCA the runaround and they pulled the plug on his attempt. This is so that the UMCA can communicate with the rider, who will mostly be asleep or out riding. So I assume that Miles has at least 1 person helping him, or at least has their name down as a helper, unless the rules have changed since I set off 17 months ago.
UMCA only checked the rides every few days or maybe once a week.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: teethgrinder on 06 July, 2018, 06:51:04 am
Would it be UMCA allowed to have someone driving you up the top of a 20 mile climb, then cycle down, then drive up, then cycle down?

It is hypothetical, but do the regulations allow any type of cycling, so an Esher type scenario like the above where one is constantly going downhill would be OK?

It is allowed.
Assuming a 30mph descent (40 mins) and driving uphill at 60mph (20 mins) That's an average cycling speed of evens. But for that to work, you'd need a van that the rider can ride up a ramp into and set off immediately as the door closes and a mountain with a straight enough road to allow 60mph average speed. So probably more like 40mph  average which would still be around 17.5mph average.

This assumes you can find at least 1 van (preferably 2 in relay) plus driver(s)
Inside the van(s) you'd need something to block the tracker signal so it can be switched off, so as not to record miles traveled in the van. You'd need to end the GPS file and start a new one on each descent.

What I think would be more effective is to have 2 follow support vehicles (motor homes, as Mark Beaumont did with his round the world record) and crew. Ride across a huge, flat land mass with a tailwind for several days, a week or fortnight. So probably Australia. Then when you run out of flat rad with tailwind, have your private jet fly you and your bike back to the other end where your 2nd support is waiting. The 1st support motorhome drives back as you ride with the tailwind and your jet flies back to the other end.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: whosatthewheel on 06 July, 2018, 07:56:46 am
Would it be UMCA allowed to have someone driving you up the top of a 20 mile climb, then cycle down, then drive up, then cycle down?

It is hypothetical, but do the regulations allow any type of cycling, so an Esher type scenario like the above where one is constantly going downhill would be OK?

It is allowed.
Assuming a 30mph descent (40 mins) and driving uphill at 60mph (20 mins) That's an average cycling speed of evens. But for that to work, you'd need a van that the rider can ride up a ramp into and set off immediately as the door closes and a mountain with a straight enough road to allow 60mph average speed. So probably more like 40mph  average which would still be around 17.5mph average.

This assumes you can find at least 1 van (preferably 2 in relay) plus driver(s)
Inside the van(s) you'd need something to block the tracker signal so it can be switched off, so as not to record miles traveled in the van. You'd need to end the GPS file and start a new one on each descent.

What I think would be more effective is to have 2 follow support vehicles (motor homes, as Mark Beaumont did with his round the world record) and crew. Ride across a huge, flat land mass with a tailwind for several days, a week or fortnight. So probably Australia. Then when you run out of flat rad with tailwind, have your private jet fly you and your bike back to the other end where your 2nd support is waiting. The 1st support motorhome drives back as you ride with the tailwind and your jet flies back to the other end.

Thanks.

I was thinking more in terms of having "rest days" (maybe once a week?) when one still clocks a respectable mileage, but without putting any real effort. 10 x 20 miles descents would take 7 hours or so on the saddle with almost zero power output... another 4-5 hours or so spent on a van...

Bit of a shortcut, admittedly... not in the spirit of the competition
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 06 July, 2018, 09:56:48 am
Quote
UMCA's negligent examination

AFAIK, there are only two who actually keep the records up to date and unless someone tells them what is going on, they will not be aware. At one time UMCA had the manpower to check around the ultra racing circuit, but no longer.

It's simple: Don't announce, what you can not really do. I perfectly understand that a volunteer organisation has limited ressources. But if you can't thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could.

And I am afraid that Miles Smith will definitely need laborious examination to comprehensibly keep track of his attempt.

Possibly, though I expect that it would end in another abandoned attempt.
In theory, everyone should have a follow car all the time. The UMCA knew that this was unlikely to happen for a year, which is why we have the live trackers, which have to be shown in public. Phtos, films and witnesses are encouraged. Each days ride must be uploaded within 24 hours. Everyone has used Strava so far but IIRC emailing the file from the GPS is acceptable. The UMCA are aware that GPSs can fail etc, so will accept tracking data, which will give a lower mileage.
Riders are now obliged to have a crew chief for HAMR (but not a HMMR) since Bruce Berkley gave the UMCA the runaround and they pulled the plug on his attempt. This is so that the UMCA can communicate with the rider, who will mostly be asleep or out riding. So I assume that Miles has at least 1 person helping him, or at least has their name down as a helper, unless the rules have changed since I set off 17 months ago.
UMCA only checked the rides every few days or maybe once a week.
I do follow him on facebook - he hasn't mentioned a crew chief but does have a loyal following in Oz (they see him as a 'rebel'). He responds to messages so I'll ask him.
Miles is getting some support from a bike shop that does mobile repairs (he mentions what a great job they do quite often) so it is very possible someone from that shop/mobile unit is acting as his crew chief.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 06 July, 2018, 12:10:43 pm
My Melbourne OZ contact replied ... but does not add much

I didn’t know that he had started.
 
He had all sorts of plans
1 month record, MTB record but I haven’t seen him for a while.
 
Some months ago he had his MTB stolen and his ‘record’ bike
backed into by a truck, so he was not going well for a while.
 
He was talking about a professional mechanic crew.
But I don’t know much more.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Peter on 06 July, 2018, 01:07:39 pm
Are you the forum sycophant?

He said:
Quote
If you cant thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could

Which is nonsense because the UMCA have never said they would supervise it.

I think you should withdraw that remark.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Manotea on 06 July, 2018, 02:03:08 pm
Are you the forum sycophant?

He said:
Quote
If you cant thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could

Which is nonsense because the UMCA have never said they would supervise it.

I think you should withdraw that remark.

Referred to forum mods.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Fidgetbuzz on 07 July, 2018, 09:51:28 am
I am told that this is an update on progress

Start date of July 3, 2018
3 riding days through July 5, 2018
Total  726.3 miles
Average 242.1 miles per day


For comparison to existing HAMR records;
Kurt Searvogel 76,076 miles with 208.43 miles per day (This is the Male Overall record as well as the record for the 50-59 age category)
Amanda Coker 86,573.2 miles with 237.19 miles per day

Existing HMMR records:
Amanda Coker 8012.5 miles (267.08 miles per day)
Steven Abraham 7104.3 miles (236.81 miles per day)
A record for Males 50-59 in HMMR has not yet been certified.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 07 July, 2018, 11:08:42 pm
Quote
UMCA's negligent examination

AFAIK, there are only two who actually keep the records up to date and unless someone tells them what is going on, they will not be aware. At one time UMCA had the manpower to check around the ultra racing circuit, but no longer.
[/quote
It's simple: Don't announce, what you can not really do. I perfectly understand that a volunteer organisation has limited ressources. But if you can't thoroughly supervise a record attempt, you should not pretend you could.

And I am afraid that Miles Smith will definitely need laborious examination to comprehensibly keep track of his attempt.

Possibly, though I expect that it would end in another abandoned attempt.
In theory, everyone should have a follow car all the time. The UMCA knew that this was unlikely to happen for a year, which is why we have the live trackers, which have to be shown in public. Phtos, films and witnesses are encouraged. Each days ride must be uploaded within 24 hours. Everyone has used Strava so far but IIRC emailing the file from the GPS is acceptable. The UMCA are aware that GPSs can fail etc, so will accept tracking data, which will give a lower mileage.
Riders are now obliged to have a crew chief for HAMR (but not a HMMR) since Bruce Berkley gave the UMCA the runaround and they pulled the plug on his attempt. This is so that the UMCA can communicate with the rider, who will mostly be asleep or out riding. So I assume that Miles has at least 1 person helping him, or at least has their name down as a helper, unless the rules have changed since I set off 17 months ago.
UMCA only checked the rides every few days or maybe once a week.
I do follow him on facebook - he hasn't mentioned a crew chief but does have a loyal following in Oz (they see him as a 'rebel'). He responds to messages so I'll ask him.
Miles is getting some support from a bike shop that does mobile repairs (he mentions what a great job they do quite often) so it is very possible someone from that shop/mobile unit is acting as his crew chief.
Response

Quote
What's a crew chief?  It's me, solo, Randonneur. 😄
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: L CC on 08 July, 2018, 10:23:15 am
I haven't seen anything from him to demonstrate he's better prepared this time than his last attempt.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: swampthing on 24 September, 2019, 12:39:36 pm
 For the sake of completeness:

WRAA*-record holder Miles Smith added two more tries:

Starting at the beginning of September, restarting last week. Both attempts were over after ~3 days, first stopped after a (minor) accident, second because of health issues.

According to Miles, the mileages ridden were impressive each time, but are unfortunately partly untraceable due to diverse technical problems.

Nevertheless he's planning to be going out again ASAP.  ::-)

https://de-de.facebook.com/GoMilesAU/


*world-record-attempt-announcements
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: S2L on 24 September, 2019, 02:00:41 pm
He should probably cure his toe nail fungus, which not only is quite disgusting, but it doesn't help long distance cycling either
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 24 September, 2019, 02:09:24 pm
For the sake of completeness:

WRAA*-record holder Miles Smith added two more tries:

Starting at the beginning of September, restarting last week. Both attempts were over after ~3 days, first stopped after a (minor) accident, second because of health issues.

According to Miles, the mileages ridden were impressive each time, but are unfortunately partly untraceable due to diverse technical problems.

Nevertheless he's planning to be going out again ASAP.  ::-)

https://de-de.facebook.com/GoMilesAU/


*world-record-attempt-announcements
Miles (I 'follow' him on facebook) claims quite incredible distances, but can never back the claims up with electronic recording. Averaging 550km per day.  He did have a post up where he claimed 750km in 24hours (was going for some 24hr record on a MTB), but that seems to have disappeared.
It is always the fault of the electronics.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: S2L on 24 September, 2019, 02:32:14 pm
Sounds like he needs to grow up and stop seeking attention...  ::-)
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: teethgrinder on 24 September, 2019, 06:39:27 pm
I'm not that surprised that Miles keeps trying. It just seems to be his nature. What I don't get, is why he hasn't nailed down the GPS issues. We all had problems with GPS recordings and that always seems to be his main problem. And perhaps an over reliance on trains?
I reckon Amanda's record is beatable with a slower riding speed than hers. After all, I rode further than she did in the first two months (but only just) even though from day 1 I was on a constant decline until I treated my sleep apnoea.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: mrcharly-YHT on 25 September, 2019, 01:10:19 pm
I'm not that surprised that Miles keeps trying. It just seems to be his nature. What I don't get, is why he hasn't nailed down the GPS issues. We all had problems with GPS recordings and that always seems to be his main problem. And perhaps an over reliance on trains?
I reckon Amanda's record is beatable with a slower riding speed than hers. After all, I rode further than she did in the first two months (but only just) even though from day 1 I was on a constant decline until I treated my sleep apnoea.
Coastal Australia tends to have *very* predictable and reliable winds. They are almost like tides, with strong winds morning in one direction, a lull, then a strong wind the other direction. Miles was taking full advantage of these combined with a train.

His addiction to pushing insane gears isn't doing him any favours. He has blown an achilles tendon and now can barely walk. Not for the first time.

The HAMR isn't just about being able to ride a long way. It is about surviving.

Oh, and Miles has freely admitted having issues using his phone and facebook. So sorting out GPS is probably beyond him. Needs a support crew!
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: Phil W on 25 September, 2019, 08:00:53 pm
Bit like Bruce he's not very good at accepting advice and sees it as an attack on his abilities. So he never adjusts what he's doing so the technology woes continue.  But he also strikes me as someone who is not very good at admin, and also doesn't recognise the need to follow basic rules of the challenge, which also contributes to the chaotic nature of his attempts.
Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: swampthing on 25 September, 2019, 08:56:51 pm
Fixing GPS issues would be counterproductive for Miles:
It would make it too obvious that he rides much less than he claims!  ;D

His main problem is neither technics nor health nor public transport nor whatever: His main problem is his (self-)delusion.

Strange guy!

Title: Re: [HAMR] A new challenger - Miles Smith
Post by: woollypigs on 19 February, 2020, 06:17:55 pm
Is this Miles? https://www.bicycling.com/training/a30860907/crazy-zwift-stats/